In what might signal the end of Manchester United's pursuit of Cesc Fabregas, new manager David Moyes has launched a bid for Belgian midfielder Marouane Fellaini, who currently plays for his former club Everton.
According to the Mirror, Fellaini has had a 23.5 million pound buy-out clause allowing him to move to a Champions League club this summer.
However, it is understood that United's valuation is not as high as that, so the clubs could be set for a tussle over his services even though Moyes is desperate to strengthen his midfield, the report said.
Barcelona midfielder Fabregas had been Moyes' No1 target, but the ex-Arsenal captain is due to publicly pledge his future to the Nou Camp on Thursday, the report added.