United have been heavily linked with a move for Depay, although Liverpool are also interested in the PSV star.
And despite Depay's strong links to Louis van Gaal it now seems the Anfield outfit could be winning the race for the Dutch ace.
According to ESPNFC, negotiations over a move for Depay are 'not as advanced as they should be'.
It is claimed that United believe there is still a chance that Bale could be lured away from Real and that he remains their first choice.
The deal could be complicated by David De Gea's reported interest in a move to Real.
If that were the case, it has been suggested that United could demand Bale be included in any deal.
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Memphis Depay could be on his way to Liverpool
But with Liverpool chasing Depay hard, United may be forced to turn their attentions to a transfer sooner than they would like or risk missing out on both targets.
Speaking about the prospect of a move, Depay said earlier this week: "If that were to come true, that would be a dream.
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