Manchester United are ready to step up their bid to secure the services of Athletic Bilbao's Oscar de Marcos, according to a report.
Red Devils boss Alex Ferguson is sending his top scouts to watch the highly-rated midfielder play in the Europa League semi-final against Sporting Lisbon on Thursday.
Ferguson views de Marcos as an ideal addition to his midfield, but wants a full report on the 22-year-old before shelling out his asking price of £26m, The Mirror understands.
Elsewhere, United have offered a new three-year deal to Italian youngster Davide Petrucci to keep the midfielder at Old Trafford.
It has been speculated that Petrucci could be loaned out next season if he fails to break into the United first team.
