Manchester United rival Barcelona for La Liga defender

Manchester United are ready to rival Barcelona for Sevilla defender Clement Lenglet, claims French outlet L’Equipe.

Lenglet is waiting to speak to new Sevilla head coach Pablo Machin before deciding on his future at the club.

United are in the process of wrapping up transfers for Brazilian midfielder Fred and Porto full-back Diogo Dalot and also want a sign a new centre-back.

Tottenham ace Toby Alderweireld has been earmarked as Jose Mourinho’s first choice but United are considering Lenglet as a cheaper alternative.

Alderweireld will cost United in excess of £50m, while Lenglet, who is seven years younger than the Tottenham centre-back, has a reported £31m release clause. 

Lenglet, 22, only joined Sevilla in January 2017 but impressed for the Spanish side last season, piquing the interest of Barcelona and United.

Barcelona, meanwhile, are keen to find a long-term successor for Gerard Pique and are still on the market for a centre-back following Yerry Mina's early struggles at the club.

The French defender was the most used Sevilla player in La Liga last season, playing more minutes than any other team-mate (3,002).