Manchester United could be handed hope in their reported pursuit of Borussia Dortmund defender Dan-Axel Zagadou with the Frenchman's contract set to expire in the summer.
It comes after the latest injury setback for the 22-year-old, as he was forced off during their commanding win over Borussia Monchengladbach as Dortmund ran out 6-0 winners.
Marco Rose will have to do without the defender for a number of weeks after tearing a muscle fibre in his thigh during the triumph.
According to Kicker via Inside Futbol, following the latest stint on the treatment table, the Black and Yellows have become increasingly doubtful over offering him an extension at Signal Iduna Park, which could play into the hands United, it's claimed.
Sporting Director Michael Zorc confirmed that they were due to open negotiations with his representatives, he said: “We would like to see him develop here with Dortmund as we hope to see him unlock his potential with us.
"There are talks ongoing over a new contract as we speak.”
The latest development comes amid links with United as Ralf Rangnick is said to be a big admirer of the former PSG youth prospect.
Meanwhile, reports in Spain namely Sport report that former United target Ousmane Dembele looks to be Chelsea-bound.
They suggest that the attacker's entourage have rekindled contacts with the likes of United, Juventus and the Champions League holders the only three clubs willing to entertain their demands.
Dembele's doomed spell at the Nou Camp looks set to be edging towards its conclusion after he failed to agree to an extension at Barcelona.
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