Manchester United interim manager Ralf Rangnick has set his sights on signing Marseille player Boubacar Kamara during the January transfer window - according to reports.
Having finished as runners-up to Manchester City in the Premier League last season, key figures in the Old Trafford boardroom issued a triple statement of intent.
Jadon Sancho, Raphael Varane and returning five-time Ballon d'Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo were their three high-profile recruits.
United missed out in a follow-up pursuit for a top-level holding midfielder.
Manchester Evening News understands that area remains a priority for next summer, while West Ham star Declan Rice continues to be seen as their number one target - despite concerns that the Hammers might dig their heels in over a valuation for the England international.
Rangnick and United have their sights set on several alternative options, though.
Out of contract next summer, Marseille player Kamara could be available for a cut-price in January - should the Old Trafford giants swoop then - and The Athletic credit United with a strong interest in his services.
The 22-year-old has made 141 appearances since progressing through the academy at the Ligue 1 club.
As things stand, Kamara has refused to sign a contract extension at Marseille and the Frenchman is thought to have several admirers from across the continent.
Elsewhere, relegation-threatened Newcastle are set to step up their chase for United forward Jesse Lingard.
Having been cast aside by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer last season, the 28-year-old rekindled top form during a successful loan spell at West Ham which saw him score nine goals and provide five assists in 16 games.
Who do you want United to sign in January? Have your say in the comments section below.
Lingard has been unable to command regular minutes since returning to Old Trafford, either, prompting Newcastle, the Hammers and other sides to monitor his situation.
Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano posted this update on social media platform Twitter.
He said: "Newcastle are seriously interested in Jesse Lingard - contacts started but still nothing agreed, open race."
We've teamed up with LiveScore to invite fans to vote for their favourite results - the games which were much more than a score. Vote for the match that mattered to you here .
.jpg?w=600)
