Man Utd to battle Chelsea for French centre-back?

Manchester United could go head-to-head with Chelsea to sign Jules Kounde next summer, according to The Mirror.

The Red Devils signed a new centre-back in Raphael Varane over the summer, but he has played limited football amid injuries.

Despite this, the Frenchman is regarded as a key player for the future, and the club are instead looking for a new defensive partner.

Harry Maguire's performances have been inconsistent this term, and the hierarchy are considering more competition for places.

Sevilla star Kounde has been identified as a top transfer target for next summer, but the club could face a transfer tussle with Chelsea.

The Blues failed with an approach to land the 23-year-old last summer, and they are likely to revive their pursuit at the end of the campaign.

The club are braced for the departure of Antonio Rudiger whose contract expires next summer. He has been touted to join Real Madrid.