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Tiemoue Bakayoko: Manchester United on alert with Chelsea yet to wrap up deal
MANCHESTER UNITED have been given encouragement in their pursuit of Monaco star Tiemoue Bakayoko.
Jose Mourinho wants to acquire a strong, holding midfielder to give the likes of Paul Pogba more licence to roam forward.
Recent reports suggested Chelsea had opened talks to sign the 22-year-old, who was a fundamental part of the Monaco side that lifted the Ligue 1 title this past season and reached the semi-finals of the Champions League.
Antonio Conte had earmarked Bakayoko as the type of player he feels could add more power to his side.
This in turn could pave the way for Mourinho to clinch a deal to reunite with Nemanja Matic.
Manchester United haven't given up hope of signing Tiemoue Bakayoko
But the Manchester Evening News claim that suggestions the Blues are close to signing Bakayoko are premature.
The report suggests Bakayoko is ‘calm’ over his future despite the ongoing speculation he could leave the principality outfit.
It is also claimed Bakayoko is receptive to the idea of working with a big-name manager like Conte or Mourinho to continue his development.
Antonio Conte is yet to sign Tiemoue Bakayoko
The Frenchman has been keeping up his fitness in the off season.
Bakayoko’s chances of a move to United could be helped by Anthony Martial.
Of United’s contingent, Martial is the one Bakayoko remains closest too.