Manchester United could be “already negotiating” to sign Brighton midfielder Alexis Mac Allister, according to journalist Cesar Luis Merlo.

The Argentinian reporter says that he knows the Red Devils, Arsenal and Liverpool are actively pursuing the 24-year-old’s signature and he believes that at least two of those teams have entered talks:

“Manchester United, Liverpool and Arsenal have specific interest in signing Alexis Mac Allister in the next transfer window. Two of those clubs are already negotiating for the Brighton footballer. His father and agent are in England monitoring the situation.”

What Merlo means by “negotiating” though is open to interpretation. Mac Allister’s father is likely to be the person whom discussions are being held with as he has already publicly stated that he has been receiving enquiries from interested clubs.

Last week reports from Italy claimed that Real Madrid were lining up a €110m (£96.3m) offer for the Argentinian international, although some have suggested that Brighton may be prepared to sell the player for around £70m.

In any case, Mac Allister is likely to prove a costly purchase and it remains to be seen whether United will stump up the cash for him.