Manchester United are set to "test the waters" with an opening bid for Raphael Varane.
The Real Madrid centre-back has emerged as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's top defensive target amid claims he won't sign a new contract at the Bernabeu.
Los Blancos are keen for the France international to renew but would be open to letting him leave if a suitable offer is made.
TF1 state United will make their opening play in the coming days.
Varane is expected to meet with new Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti after he returns from his holiday and he could even be involved in the July 25 friendly against Rangers at Ibrox.
It's believed the 28-year-old may still be persuaded to stay in the Spanish capital and the Old Trafford club have been stung before in a similar situation.
United were strongly linked with Sergio Ramos and received encouragement from the defender's camp before he eventually penned a new deal in Madrid.
Their Varane pursuit is further complicated by a lurking Paris Saint-Germain.
It's reported the Ligue 1 giants, who this week signed Ramos following his departure from La Liga, are also in discussions with Varane's representatives.
