Manchester United have started “background checks” on Aston Villa captain Jack Grealish, according to the Mirror. It was thought that the midfielder would only be available if the Villans were relegated from the Premier League but it appears the Red Devils could make a move for him regardless.

Ole Gunnars Solskjaer’s side have been keeping tabs on the 24-year-old for a number of months, with some reports even suggesting that they were keen to wrap up a deal before the transfer window opens.

However, United’s plans could be scuppered by Villa’s asking price. Despite the financial impact of the global health crisis, the Midlands club are said to be holding out for £80m.

That is an incredibly steep figure for Grealish but it must be pointed out that his team are not desperate to sell. Villa’s owners are billionaires and they are looking to stick to their guns over their valuation of the player.