Manchester United are reportedly among the clubs who are stepping up their efforts to sign Real Madrid playmaker Marco Asensio.
Despite the number of players that are due to depart United on free transfers, Erik ten Hag is yet to make his first signing of the summer transfer window.
However, that is allegedly about to change with Feyenoord defender Tyrell Malacia said to be on the brink of moving to Old Trafford.
While that addition would represent a boost to the Premier League, the newly-appointed Ten Hag wants to add further fresh faces to a group of players who struggled at both ends of the pitch last season.
According to Sport, the Red Devils are one of three teams who are 'pushing' to win the race for Asensio.
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With just a year remaining on his contract, the 26-year-old is currently deliberating over whether he should depart the Santiago Bernabeu over the coming weeks.
The Spain international is not regarded as first choice by Carlo Ancelotti, and the switch to a new team would come with the demand of first-team football.
Just 19 of his 31 outings in La Liga during 2021-22 came from the first XI, Ancelotti preferring the likes of Federico Valverde and Rodrygo on the right flank.
A report earlier this month claimed that Real officials are ready to demand in the region of £35m for Asensio, although it remains to be seen whether any team will be prepared to meet that valuation.
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The report adds that AC Milan and Chelsea are also monitoring the situation, the former holding a long-standing interest in the player.
However, despite winning Serie A last season, it is yet to be determined whether the Italian champions will spend big money in the current market.
Chelsea, on the other hand, have significant funds to use, but Tuchel is seemingly priority other targets over moving for Asensio.
The Blues are reportedly making good progress with their efforts to sign Manchester City winger Raheem Sterling, while they remain as contenders for Barcelona attacker Ousmane Dembele.
Whoever wins the race for Asensio will allegedly have to meet the player's wage demands, said to be in excess of €7m (£6m) per year.
Darren Plant
