Manchester United have “held discussions” internally about whether to make a move for Everton’s Amadou Onana, according to the Daily Mail.

The Red Devils have been considering their options as they look at ways of strengthening their midfield if the likes of Fred, Donny van de Beek and Scott McTominay leave Old Trafford before the transfer window closes.

Fiorentina’s Sofyan Amrabat is said to be the priority target but it is thought that both Onana and Leeds midfielder Tyler Adams have been watched as well.

Onana only made the switch to Everton last summer for £33m but the Toffees are struggling financially and it is believed that they would be prepared to let him go for a fee in the region of £55m.

Plenty of other clubs have considered bids for Onana

Chelsea, Arsenal and West Ham are just some of the other teams that have weighed up moves to sign the 21-year-old in recent months.

For whatever reason, though, these clubs have turned their attention towards other targets. Chelsea have been pursuing Brighton’s Moises Caicedo and Leeds’ Adams. Arsenal snapped up Declan Rice, while the Hammers are keen on McTominay and Southampton’s James Ward-Prowse.

United have not stepped up their interest either

The Mail report that Erik ten Hag’s side’s pursuit of Onana has “not progressed” beyond preliminary talks. The most likely reason is the Belgian’s asking price.

Amrabat’s valuation is £30m, which is significantly below what it would cost to recruit Onana so you can see why the Red Devils are currently favouring a move for the Moroccan.

If the likes of McTominay, van de Beek and Fred are all sold before deadline day, though, United may need to consider going into the market for another midfielder, even if they land Amrabat. Therefore, Onana could still come back on the radar.