Man Utd 'reignite talks for bargain third transfer' as INEOS twist knife in Liverpool

Manchester United have reportedly reignited their interest in France midfielder Adrien Rabiot, who is available on a free transfer after his Juventus contract expired this summer. The Red Devils are said to have entered talks over finally bringing Rabiot to Old Trafford, two years after first discussing a move.

Erik ten Hag is keen to add fresh blood to his midfield, with Donny van de Beek leaving for Girona and multiple other players in the shop window.

Kobbie Mainoo is certain to start as one of the two midfielders in United’s double pivot this season, but the identity of his partner remains unclear.

Casemiro, Scott McTominay and Christian Eriksen are thought to be up for sale, but no suitable offers have yet to arrive, and exits currently seem unlikely.

However, United are working behind the scenes to prepare for the event in which they offload another midfielder, clearing room on the wage bill and boosting their budget.

Paris Saint-Germain’s Manuel Ugarte has emerged as a leading target, while Sofyan Amrabat could yet join permanently from Fiorentina after spending last season on loan in M16.

But a free transfer could represent a feasible work-around if United struggle to offload further midfielders, and Rabiot is said to be of strong interest.

According to CaughtOffside, United are working to reach an agreement to recruit Rabiot after his Juventus exit.

The Old Trafford giants are claimed to have held talks with the 29-year-old and his mother, who works as his representative.

Liverpool have been touted as rival suitors alongside Aston Villa, Chelsea, Newcastle United and Galatasaray.

But the report adds that United are leading the race for Rabiot’s signature, and that there is optimism that a deal will be struck in the near future.

United are reportedly willing to hand Rabiot, who has long desired to play in the Premier League, an annual salary worth up to £7.5m, as well as a signing bonus.

The Red Devils first held talks with the Frenchman two years ago after a summer-long pursuit of Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong ended in disappointment.

Despite agreeing an £85m deal with Barca, De Jong rejected a switch, leaving the club scrambling for alternatives.

Discussions took place between United and Rabiot’s camp but broke down over his salary demands and he remained at Juventus for another two years.

United still find themselves hunting midfield upgrades, though, and the former Paris Saint-Germain man’s availability appears to have pushed him back into the frame.