Manchester United have added Nice midfielder Khephren Thuram to “their list of targets” according to TMW.

The Italian website claims that the Red Devils are expected to spend big during the summer transfer window with minority shareholder Sir Jim Ratcliffe looking “to dip into his wallet to strengthen the squad”.

As the British billionaire already owns Nice, it appears that United may have an advantage over other clubs in the race to secure Thuram’s signature.

TMW report that the midfielder’s asking price is around €40m (£34m) and the cost of the deal may also reduce the number of teams prepared to table a bid for the player.

Who else is interested in signing Thuram?

There are at least two Italian clubs, Inter Milan and Juventus, who would be keen on snapping up the 22-year-old this summer. However, the biggest threat to United may come from other Premier League teams.

Last year, the likes of Liverpool, Chelsea and Newcastle United were all linked with bids for Thuram and they could still revive their interest in the player.

Would Thuram be keen on a move to United?

Speaking about her client’s future back in November, Thuram’s agent Rafaela Pimenta said that the midfielder is “ready for a big team”.

However, she did question whether Nice were willing to let such an “important player” leave. Whether Ratcliffe’s influence will have any bearing on a potential transfer, we shall have to wait and see.

United have also looked at making a move for Thuram’s teammate, Jean-Clair Todibo, but it didn’t appear that Nice were willing to give the Red Devils any special treatment.

There is a sizeable difference in cost between the two players though. Todibo is reportedly valued at €60m (£51m), while Thuram’s price tag is said to be two-thirds of that figure.