Manchester United have started talks with Nice about recruiting defender Melvin Bard.
Tyrell Malacia has missed the entire campaign due to injury, while Luke Shaw has missed significant parts of the season.
The team therefore believe they need to strengthen the left-back position for the next season and INEOS have identified it as a top priority.
Bard, 23, moved from Lyon to Nice in 2021 and his performances this season have put him in contention for France’s European Championships squad.
Although primarily a left-back, Bard can also play in left midfield and has provided two assists in 23 appearances this season.
Nice, owned by United minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, are willing to sell Bard this summer as he only has two years remaining on his contract.
Finances will be limited at United this summer, despite Ratcliffe’s investment.
United are unlikely to qualify for the Champions League, which will push them closer to their Financial Fair Play limits.
The club hope to reach an agreement with Newcastle to release Dan Ashworth from his gardening leave, so that he can take up the role of Sporting Director.
Jason Wilcox will report to Ashworth after he completes his gardening leave at Southampton, though United hope to negotiate a compensation package with the Saints so that he can become a technical director at Old Trafford.
A striker, central midfielder, and centre-back are also of interest to United this summer.
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