Manchester United are eyeing a surprise summer move for £40m-rated Bournemouth winger Marcus Tavernier, according to the Daily Mail.
The Red Devils are currently focused on securing Champions League football for next season in the Premier League, although their hopes took a slight hit following defeat to 10-man Newcastle United at St James' Park last week.
Nevertheless, Man United still lie third in the standings ahead of hosting fourth-placed Aston Villa in a huge match at Old Trafford this Sunday, with the top five spots in the table likely to guarantee a spot in Europe's elite club competition next term.
United currently lie three points ahead of sixth-placed Liverpool, knowing that Champions League football could significantly increase their summer transfer budget.
According to GIVEMESPORT sources, as well as bringing in two top central midfielders, United could also consider a new striker, a versatile left-sided player and a right-back if their budget is boosted.
Man United Add Tavernier to List of Summer Targets
Marcus Tavernier in action for Bournemouth
United have been linked with moves for Antoine Semenyo - who joined Manchester City instead - and Alex Scott from Bournemouth in recent months, but Tavernier is a new name added to their list of left-winger targets for the summer, according to the Daily Mail.
Carrick confirmed earlier this month that the Red Devils are looking at reinforcements in that position, with RB Leipzig's Yan Diomande and Nottingham Forest's Morgan Gibbs-White two other potential options on their shortlist.
United could face Premier League competition for the 26-year-old's signature should they firm up their interest, with Aston Villa keen and Nottingham Forest making enquiries during the January transfer window, before the winger picked up a hamstring injury.
The report says that given Tavernier remains under contract until 2029 at the Vitality Stadium, he would be valued at around £40m.
United Could Kill Two Birds With One Stone
Manchester United manager Michael Carrick looks on vs West Ham
Not only is Tavernier available for a decent price in Premier League terms, but there is something else about him that might stand out to United's recruitment team.
While he is used to either playing on the left or as a number 10, which has seen him score six goals and provide a further four assists this term, Andoni Iraola has also used the Yorkshireman in a deeper midfield role when the Cherries were suffering from injury and suspension issues.
In fact, Tavernier picked up a goal and an assist in a number 8 role against United at Old Trafford, in the thrilling 4-4 draw back in December.
While the 26-year-old would primarily be used as a winger at United, the fact that he can also slot into midfield and perform well, given it's a key position the Red Devils want to bolster this summer, should be an attractive proposition.
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