Manchester United are reportedly challenging Chelsea for Monaco’s Tiemoue Bakayoko.
Monaco’s Tiemoue Bakayoko celebrates scoring their third goal against Manchester City
According to the Manchester Evening News, Monaco midfielder Tiemoue Bakayoko will consider a move to Manchester United – if they qualify for the Champions League.
The Ligue 1-leading Monaco side have attracted plaudits for their performances this season, and their recent Champions League triumph over Manchester City has triggered interest in a number of players.
Djibril Sidibe, Benjamin Mendy, Fabinho, Bernardo Silva, Thomas Lemar and Kylian Mbappe will all be wanted when the transfer window opens this summer, whilst midfielder Tiemoue Bakayoko is attracting interest.
Bakayoko, 22, joined Monaco from Rennes in 2014, and the new France international has starred as a box to box midfielder, possessing pace, strength, passing ability and a strong reading of the game in front of the back four.
Now, The Manchester Evening News report that, with Chelsea pursuing a £35million deal for Bakayoko, Manchester United are now entering the race – and have more than a fighting chance of winning the battle.
It’s claimed that Bakayoko would be interested in joining United in order to work with manager Jose Mourinho, but he would only consider the move if United secure Champions League football for next season.
Manchester United’s Anthony Martial is congratulated by manager Jose Mourinho
The report adds that, with Mourinho looking to beat former club Chelsea to Bakayoko’s signature, he could call upon United ace and Bakayoko’s former Monaco team-mate Anthony Martial to try and convince the midfielder to pick Old Trafford over Stamford Bridge.
United’s move for Bakayoko could now ruin Chelsea’s £35million attempts to land the Frenchman, with a fierce battle between the two clubs set to ensue over the coming weeks and months.
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