Manchester United fans protest outside Old Trafford
Manchester United have reportedly contacted the agents of Lille defender Sven Botman regarding the potential of a move to Old Trafford this summer. Botman was linked with United's bitter rivals Liverpool in January before the Reds opted to sign Ozan Kabak and Ben Davies.
Botman has impressed in his debut campaign at Lille and is set to win the Ligue 1 title ahead of Paris Saint-Germain.
The 21-year-old came through the Ajax academy but failed to make a first-team appearance for the Eredivisie giants.
United are in the market for a new defender this summer as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer attempts to bring in a long-term partner for club captain Harry Maguire.
Real Madrid and France star Raphael Varane has been strongly linked with a move to Old Trafford.
Manchester United transfer news: Man Utd have made contact with Sven Botman's agents (Image: GETTY)
However, Spanish outlet AS claim Real want up to £60million for Varane, with United only willing to offer £40m.
Duncan Castles of Reach PLC's Transfer Window podcast says Botman has emerged as an alternative for United.
Castles claims Botman is very likely to be sold by Lille in the upcoming window and United have already approached the player's representatives.
"Sven Botman at Lille will almost certainly be sold this summer because Lille badly need to raise cash, and he has been outstanding for them in his debut season in French football," Castles said.
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Manchester United transfer news: Man Utd could have a busy summer window (Image: EXPRESS)
"United, I'm told, have been working and making contacts with Botman's agents to explore the possibility. So he is on the list too."
In an interview with The Athletic, Botman revealed how he reacted to Liverpool's interest in January.
However, he insists he is not looking at his future beyond this season.
“I’m lying if I say it’s not interesting me — it’s the first time such big clubs are linked to me — but it was early days because in January I was only at Lille for half a season," Botman said.
"It was nice to hear but I was focusing on Lille and I’m still doing this. After the season I will enjoy a vacation and see what happens next.