MADRID KEEPING EYE ON UNITED THREE

REAL Madrid have asked to be kept informed of three United players’ movements ahead of the summer transfer window.

It is understood Madrid have reiterated their interest in David de Gea and are also monitoring Paul Pogba and Anthony Martial’s situations.

Gareth Bale is believed to be among the players Real have offered United first refusal on as both clubs prepare to freshen up their squads.

Real are mindful of United’s long-standing admiration for Bale and desire to preferably sign two central midfielders ahead of next season.

They have suggested they could be amenable to offering Luka Modric or Toni Kroos, two players whom United have considered signing in the past, in a swap deal.

Despite the obvious temptations, United are unlikely to entertain the prospect of negotiating with Madrid as they prioritise a new contract for De Gea. His current contract expires next year but United have the option of extending it until 2020.

Bale’s stock at Real has dwindled in another injuryplagued season and he was omitted from the starting line-up in their 3-0 Champions League defeat of Juventus on Tuesday night.

Mourinho has repeatedly stressed he does not want to make any attacking additions in the summer but could make an exception for Bale.

United are believed to want to sign two central midfielders as they prepare to lose Michael Carrick and Marouane Fellaini at the end of the season. Kroos and Modric remain two of the finest in their position but Real have no intention of discarding both players. UNITED SPECIAL: PAGES 58-60