Man Utd set sights on 'outstanding' Jadon Sancho 'replacement' after Real Madrid set transfer clause

Manchester United have set their sights on Real Sociedad winger Takefusa Kubo, according to reports.

The Red Devils have endured a difficult start to the Premier League campaign, with Erik ten Hag's position under threat.

A dramatic 2-1 win over Brentford has provided some momentary respite, with United currently heading into the international break in 10th place in the table.

However, Old Trafford scouts have already identified 22-year-old Kubo as a possible addition to the club.

That's according to Spanish outlet Fichajes, who claim that the player is on United's radar following an impressive start to the campaign, where he has picked up five goals and two assists in just nine games in all competitions.

However, there remains a potential obstacle in the way of a transfer after Real Madrid agreed a 50% sell-on clause with Real Sociedad upon the player leaving the Bernabeu in 2022.

The clause could become a potential stumbling block in negotiations, with Los Blancos undoubtedly keen to get as much money as possible for the player.

Meanwhile, Kubo, who is described as "outstanding" by the same report, has a contract with Real Sociedad until 2027.

The Japanese attacker could act as a replacement for Jadon Sancho, who has fallen out of favour under Ten Hag lately.

The 23-year-old has been banished from first-team training after refusing to apologise to manager Erik ten Hag following their public fall-out. And he has been tipped to leave the club this January.

As the problems on United's right wing continue, Kubo would be a welcome addition to a United front line who have been struggling so far this season.

Fabrizio Romano previously told CaughtOffside that Pedro Neto could be available to Manchester United in January, but it depends on if the Red Devils are willing to spend big in the winter window or not.

If Erik Ten Hag and the club plan to pursue Kubo, they will most likely have to wait until the summer of 2024.