United wrapped up a January deal worth up to £67m for Portugal international Bruno Fernandes, who impressed on his debut against Wolves, but landing another creative midfielder at the end of the season remains the plan.
It had appeared earlier this season that United were very keen on Maddison, who has enjoyed an exceptional campaign with Leicester. However, the Daily Mirror reports that Grealish has now emerged as the more viable target, described as an ‘exciting’ player United think can lift them.
Beyond Grealish’s obvious quality alone, part of the reason is likely to be availability.
Even if Aston Villa are not relegated from the Premier League this season, Grealish could still be on the move as he looks to fulfil his potential at a bigger club.
The 24-year-old scored against United at Old Trafford earlier this season and has actually outperformed Maddison, with whom he is battling for an England place at Euro 2020, this season in terms of combined goals and assists.
Last month, this writer argued for the specific pursuit of Grealish over Maddison.
Maddison is expected to agree a new long-term contract with Leicester sooner rather than later, which will see him earn a major pay rise and protect the Foxes from poaching.
United were exploring the possibility of offering £45m plus Jesse Lingard for Maddison ahead of the January transfer window. 90min revealed soon after that Lingard getting wind of the proposal was behind his decision to align with controversial agent Mino Raiola.
Where Raiola is otherwise concerned, there is now fresh speculation that Paul Pogba remains keen on leaving United this coming summer.
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Source : 90min