United go for Verratti

when they enquired about the Italy star last summer and a similar fee would be needed to prise him away from the French giants.

Should Mourinho get his way, then Verratti would be paired with Brazilian Fred, the Shakhtar Donetsk star, who is also a target.

Mourinho’s interest in the Italy star will come as a blow to new West Ham boss Manuel Pellegrini, who wants to sign him too.

But, while Pellegrini targets new signings, one player he is determined to keep is Marko Arnautovic.

West Ham have issued a hands-off warning, with Mourinho tracking the £50m-rated Austrian.

Everton are interested as well, but the Hammers insist he is not for sale.