Manchester United to rival Barcelona for signature of Paris Saint-Germain star Marco Verratti

Manchester United have joined Barcelona in the race for Paris Saint-Germain star Marco Verratti.

The midfielder is open to leaving the French capital this summer after spending five seasons at the Parc des Princes.

Barcelona are very eager to strike a deal for the Italy international and they have long been viewed as the frontrunners for his signature.

However, according to TMW, Manchester United have now also joined the hunt to land Verratti this summer.

United scout Jose Mayorga is said to have held preliminary talks with the 24-year-old's representatives to see if he would be tempted by a move to Old Trafford.

Jose Mourinho is reportedly a huge fan of Verratti and he is looking to sign a new central midfielder this summer.

Manchester United had been pursuing Chelsea's Nemanja Matic, but that deal appears to have stalled.