Manchester United could beat Real Madrid to Van de Beek

The Red Devils are said to have been closely monitoring developments with regards to Van de Beek's future throughout the current season.

LaLiga giants Real were thought to be frontrunners to sign the Holland star, but may no longer be in a position to afford him - leaving Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's men as the main contenders for his signature.

Ajax chief executive Edwin van der Sar has confirmed that the 23-year-old will be allowed to leave this summer, along with team-mates Andre Onana and Nicolas Tagliafico.

And The Times claims that United 'have renewed their interest' and are 'weighing up a bid to snatch' Van de Beek from under Real Madrid's noses.

The report says that while the midfielder had 'agreed the outline of a deal to join' the Spanish giants in a transfer worth €55m, the 'financial crisis' in Spain means there are huge doubts over any deal.