Manchester United could make “formal approach” for £34m wonderkid after holding talks

Manchester United could make a formal approach for a wildcard option ahead of a busy summer transfer window.

The Reds will have full focus on their FA Cup final against Manchester City on Saturday afternoon, where Erik ten Hag’s side have the chance to end a glum season on a high.

However, once the final whistle is blown at Wembley on the weekend, those at United will immediately turn their attention to preparing for next season.

There will need to be major changes to the playing squad, and many additions are likely to be made, particularly in defence, with the announcement of Raphaël Varane’s departure.

However, the engine room will also need addressing since the likes of Christian Eriksen and Casemiro are likely to leave in the coming months.

According to AcademyScoop, the club have already held initial talks with the representatives of Désiré Doué, a French youngster playing for Ligue 1 side Rennes.

Doué, 18, is an attacking player who can operate in the midfield or on the wing. He played 42 games for Rennes during their 2023/24 campaign and is being watched by several other big clubs.

The aforementioned report explained that Paris Saint-Germain and Arsenal are also showing interest in the midfielder but that a formal approach from Old Trafford could be made in the coming weeks, with INEOS eager to avoid losing out to the competition.

French outlet Ouest France has added that Rennes are preparing to sell the French wonderkid this summer and are open to offers between £34-42 million.

Doué came through the youth ranks at Les Rouges et Noirs and has two years remaining on his current contract.