Manchester United in for Real Madrid midfielder

Manchester United have reportedly expressed an interest in signing Mateo Kovacic from Real Madrid during the summer transfer window.

The Red Devils are close to announcing the signing of Fred from Shakhtar Donetsk but Jose Mourinho is still on the search for another midfielder to bolster the ranks.

According to Mundo Deportivo, the Portuguese tactician is aiming to replace contract rebel Fellaini in the summer and Kovacic has emerged as a possible target.

Kovacic has largely played a back-up role during his time at the Bernabeu and his future with the European champions could depend upon the new manager at the helm.

The Croatia international made 36 appearances for Los Blancos across all competitions last term but only 10 of those were starts in the Spanish top-flight.

Manchester United are expected to announce the £52m signing of Fred in the next 24 hours with the Brazilian having reported to their training ground for a medical.