Manchester United have added Bournemouth forward Marcus Tavernier to their list of potential left-wing targets for the summer.
Interim manager Michael Carrick confirmed last week that the Old Trafford club are in the market for reinforcements in that position and scouts are helping to formulate a list that also includes the versatile Morgan Gibbs-White of Nottingham Forest and RB Leipzig’s highly-coveted winger Yan Diomande.
Tavernier is also attracting interest from United’s Champions League rivals Aston Villa plus Nottingham Forest, who made enquiries in January, prior to the 26-year-old picking up a hamstring injury.
The former England U19 international, who started out at Middlesbrough, has been a key performer for Bournemouth’s attack, when fit, scoring six goals this season and providing five assists.
Bournemouth may be open to a sale as they have been willing to wheel and deal over recent seasons to make a profit before channelling those funds into discovering new talents for coach Andoni Iraola to work with.
Tavernier is still under contract until 2029 so could be valued around £40million.
United will monitor developments while their final choice will also be determined by where they finish this season.
Champions League qualification will change the landscape of what players they will be able to pursue. However, if they miss out, they may need to sell to help generate funds and lower their sights on who they can afford to attract.
United want two midfielders this summer and will look to strengthen at full-back and possibly centre back.
Meanwhile, former Manchester City head of coaching and player development Darren Hughes is joining Manchester United’s academy in a new role as head of academy football development.
