Manchester United are eyeing a deal to sign Reims midfield star Patrick Zabi, according to Sky Sports journalist Sacha Tavolieri.
The Red Devils are in the market to bolster their midfield options in 2026, with a number of Premier League stars currently on their wishlist, including the likes of Elliot Anderson, Adam Wharton, Carlos Baleba and most recently, Alex Scott.
However, it's understood that the club could look to bring in more than one midfielder amid concerns over the futures of Kobbie Mainoo, Casemiro, Manuel Ugarte and Bruno Fernandes, and the club have now identified a potential option to come in for a cheaper price to strengthen the squad.
Man Utd Want 'New Pogba' Patrick Zabi
paul pogba manchester united
Zabi, who has been described as 'one of the most exciting midfielders in France' by talent scout Jacek Kulig, currently plays for Reims in Ligue 2, and has been attracting the interest from several clubs.
Ligue 1 side Paris FC have already had bids rejected for the 19-year-old central midfielder, with their most recent offer worth €15m + €10m in add-ons (£13m + £8.6m). It's also noted that they could look to return with a fresh bid this month, to get ahead of the competition.
That competition includes Manchester United, who see Zabi as being 'the new Paul Pogba', while Red Bull are also interested in a deal for the Ivorian, with the player already holding talks with Jurgen Klopp about a move.
Reims have set their asking price for Zabi at €25m (£21.6m) without any add-ons, and Man Utd could look to enter the race too as they seek reinforcements to try and claim Champions League football for next season.
Zabi Could Be Shrewd Business at Old Trafford
Michael Carrick
With the managerial situation at Old Trafford far from secure heading into the summer, Man Utd must be decisive with any moves they plan to make in the transfer market, and it must be a deal that suits whoever may come in.
A player like Zabi, who blends technical quality with physical attributes, would be a great addition and at 19 can also be moulded into a quality player for years to come. With United likely to spend big on at least one midfielder this summer, supplementing that with a cheaper signing for another quality player would be shrewd business.
With Paris FC clearly keeping a close eye on proceedings, it's one for Man Utd to stay attentive too, and potentially make their move if the situation calls for it.
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