MANCHESTER UNITED have surged into contention to sign Real Madrid playmaker Isco, according to reports.
Manchester United and Real Madrid have a strained transfer relationship after several incidents in recent years.
The two teams used to regularly do business with each other, with the likes of David Beckham, Ruud van Nistelrooy and Angel Di Maria exchanging teams.
However, the saga of David De Gea in 2015 has seen relations deteriorate with Manchester United since failing to sign Gareth Bale and Alvaro Morata.
But Spanish outlet Don Balon say the Red Devils are now keen to lure Isco to Old Trafford and away from the Bernabeu.
The Spain international is facing an uncertain future at the club.
At the start of the season, he signed a new deal with a huge £650million release clause to deter potential suitors.
However, Isco has since plunged down Zinedine Zidane’s pecking order.
And Don Balon say United have roared into the race to sign him.
The player is also on the agenda of Pep Guardiola across town at Manchester City.
And, consequently, Jose Mourinho is now preparing a huge bid to entice the player to Old Trafford – rather than the Etihad.
Isco recently scored a hat-trick as Spain thumped Argentina 6-1.
Speaking after that, though, Zidane suggested the 25-year-old was too inconsistent to start all the time.
“Maybe with the national team Isco is different because he has eight matches with them [in a season], whereas here there are 60,” Zidane said.
“Here we play every three days.
“For me there are no backups.
“I have 25 very good players and I am going to use them all.
“There are moments in which some will play more.”
Isco could feature for Real when they face Juventus tonight (7.45pm).
Source:www.express.co.uk