Man Utd 'initiate contact' for transfer five years in the making as third INEOS deal eyed

Manchester United have reportedly made an approach for a player they have liked for around five years without ever getting a deal done. It has been a frustrating transfer window for the Red Devils, who have been relatively quiet since the arrival of Matheus Cunha over a month ago. They remain in talks with Brentford about a potential move for Bryan Mbeumo but are yet to agree a transfer fee.

United have made a couple of signings with the future in mind, having completed a deal to land teenage defender Diego Leon. Last week, they welcomed Enzo Kana-Biyik from Le Havre before immediately sending him on loan to Lausanne-Sport. However, it has been quiet in terms of players who are ready to come in and improve the first team straight away.

That could be about to change, though, with L'Equipe reporting that United have reached out to Lyon to discuss a potential move for Corentin Tolisso.

The midfielder came through Lyon's academy, spending four years there before joining Bayern Munich. He returned to his former club in 2022 and played in all but two of their league fixtures last season.

United were initially linked with a move for Tolisso five years ago, shortly after Bayern's most recent Champions League triumph. He ended up staying in Germany but the Red Devils are thought to have revived their interest ahead of the new campaign.

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They are said to have reached out to the player's entourage to gauge his interest in moving to Old Trafford. The report claims that Tolisso would be eager to join United should they decide to firm up their enquiry with an official approach.

He is believed to be flattered by the interest, valuing it higher than attempts from Turkish clubs earlier in the window. However, there is no suggestion that Tolisso will kick up a fuss at Lyon to force through an exit.

The report adds that Lyon are prepared to fight to keep hold of Tolisso, given they want to build their squad around the 30-year-old for the new season.

Clubs in the Saudi Pro League have also shown interest and the country is reportedly seen as a 'credible destination' for Tolisso. The division's big hitters would almost certainly be able to offer higher wages than United.

Tolisso remains tied down to Lyon until the summer of 2027, meaning they are under no immediate pressure to sell. He is said to be valued at just £8.7million, potentially making him a bargain for the Red Devils.

The versatile midfielder would bring title-winning experience to Old Trafford, having won 13 trophies with Bayern Munich including the Champions League. He was also a member of the France squad which won the World Cup in 2018.

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