Manchester United are expected to make an approach for Real Madrid winger Marco Asensio when the transfer window opens, according to reports in the Spanish media.

Manager Erik ten Hag is believed to have identified the 26-year-old as his main alternative to Cody Gakpo, who joined Liverpool earlier this week.

United are on good terms with both Asensio’s agent, Jorge Mendes, and his club so there is said to be a good chance that a deal can be finalised.

The Spanish international has just six months remaining on his contract, so Real may be open to selling the forward in January. United are reportedly already preparing a contract offer for the player worth €8m a year (£136,000 a week) net but the Red Devils will still have to find an agreement over a transfer fee.

Asensio has been linked with other Premier League clubs in the past, including Newcastle and Arsenal, but United appear to be the frontrunners for his signature at the moment.