Man Utd favourites to sign Bayer Leverkusen star?

Manchester United have the upper hand over Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United in the pursuit of Bayer Leverkusen centre-back Edmond Tapsoba this summer, according to Teamtalk.

The Red Devils have prioritised strengthening their midfield department in the current transfer window. They have already recruited Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans, and Carlos Baleba is set to join them soon.

The next priority could be bolstering the defence, and a new centre-back could be signed. Teamtalk claim that negotiations are underway between United and Tapsoba's representatives and a formal bid could be made.

Leverkusen want around £43m for the Burkina Faso star, and United seem favourites, having made more progress with the player's entourage. On top of this, Tapsoba is said to be tempted by Champions League football.

Spurs and Newcastle are still in the pursuit of the 27-year-old, but United seem optimistic of striking a deal. The hierarchy could lodge a formal offer for the player after discussing with manager Michael Carrick.