Manchester United are reportedly lining up a £22mn bid for Croatian midfielder Luka Modric, who is set to leave Tottenham this summer, according to a report in The Sun. The Red Devils, who have already signed Borussia Dortmund playmaker Shinji Kagawa for £17mn, are now looking to further boost their midfield options by getting Modric. Spurs have placed a £32mn price tag on the 26 year old playmaker's head but Sir Alex Ferguson, who has been interested in the player for some time now, is confident he can land the player for less.

Chelsea were favourites to sign Modric last season, when they bid a staggering £40mn. However, Tottenham chief executive Daniel Levy defied the Red Devils to hold on to Modric. Now, however, with the Blues having already signed Belgian forward Eden Hazard (from Lille) and looking to sign Brazilian Hulk (from FC Porto), the road ahead for United looks clearer. There is also the fact that Spurs will not play in the Champions League next season.

Meanwhile, apart from Modric, Ferguson has apparently also enquired after Newcastle's Ivorian midfielder Cheick Tiote and Everton left back Leighton Baines. The Scot was reportedly put off both players by asking prices of approximately £20mn each.

"We have made inquiries for all three players. But Sir Alex will not be paying these ridiculous fees," the Daily Mail quoted a Manchester United source as saying.

Finally, a report in the Mirror states United have agreed a £3mn transfer fee with Chilean club Universidad de Chile for teenage striker Angelo Henriquez. The 18 year old will arrive at Old Trafford this summer. The rising Chilean star scored an impressive eight goals in 10 appearances for his parent club.

Unfortunately for United, Ferguson will have to ensure a "special talent" visa for the teenager until he makes an appearance for the Chilean senior team, otherwise the Red Devils will have to loan him to some other European country.

Manchester United FC