Former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson wants the club to sign Aston Villa midfielder John McGinn, according to the Sun.

The club legend has been lobbying current boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to sign the Scottish international this summer.

Ferguson is reportedly good friends with McGinn’s grandfather and he believes the playmaker could add energy and work rate to United’s midfield.

The 24-year-old is currently in talks with Villa over signing a new contract and it is believed the Midlands club won’t let the player leave for less than £50m.

Currently, United have their sights set on other midfielders. Sporting Lisbon’s Bruno Fernandes and Lazio’s Sergej Milinkovic-Savic have been heavily linked in recent days.

Newcastle’s Sean Longstaff is, however, said to be the Manchester club’s primary target before the transfer window closes in 11 days time.

Magpies owner Mike Ashley says the player is not for sale but United may try their luck with a formal bid before deadline day.