Manchester United have narrowed their focus on landing NemanjaMatic as the deal for Eric Dier goes costlier than envisaged.
Jose Mourinho had Dier at the top of his list of players to partner Paul Pogba in the middle of the park. However with Spurs chief Daniel Levy not keen on losing another key player of the team, United have decided to focus on Chelsea defensive midfielder Matic.
Levy lost Kyle Walker to Man City but for an appropriate valuation. While United might offer substantial financial reward in the Dier deal, Levy does not want to further deplete the team.
Mourinho admires the Serbian from his time at Stamford Bridge. Matic also wants to join United so Chelsea could allow the deal through at £40 million.
Serie A champs Juventus have been reported to be interested in landing Matic as well. Chelsea might refuse to sell to a league rival so the Italian side have an advantage. The Blues were not keen on allowing the player leave earlier but after completing the deal for TiemoueBakayoko from Monaco, Matic could exit The Bridge soon. The 28-year old would be good market if United pay £40 million.
Also as Matic is set to join the middle, United could release forward Anthony Martial to Besiktas. The Super Lig side wants to help the 21-year old revive his career in Turkey after a poor time in England. There were reports that Mourinho wanted to ignore the deal for Ivan Perisic with the hope of using Martial. Or use Martial in a swap deal with Inter Milan.
With the huge sums involved, Martial would likely go on loan to Besiktas rather than an all-out move. Lyon have also expressed interest in getting Martial, even if it is a loan deal.