Zinedine Zidane wanted to sign player Man United released on a free when he was manager of Real Madrid

Zinedine Zidane reportedly wanted to sign a player Manchester United offloaded for nothing when he was in charge of Real Madrid.

Zidane had two spells in charge of Los Blancos, winning two La Liga titles and three Champions Leagues.

He has been linked with the United job on so many occasions and continues to be an outside shout.

But a few years back, during his first stint at Real, the Ballon d'Or winner was keen on signing a United star.

As per the Manchester Evening News, Zidane liked what he saw from forward Anthony Martial in a pre-season friendly between the two clubs.

Martial lined up on the left in the game across the pond and produced a stunning assist for Jesse Lingard, dribbling past three players before setting up the England international.

Midway through his final season, Zidane and Real registered interest in Martial and also wanted to be kept updated on situations involving Paul Pogba and David de Gea as part of informal discussions.

Image: Getty

However, despite the admiration, all three players ended up leaving United on free transfers at different stages.

Martial was the latest player to exit Old Trafford, ending a nine-year stint at the club in the summer.

A £36 million signing from AS Monaco, Martial scored 90 goals in 317 games - with injuries and a loss of form ruining what could have been a promising career.

He scored just twice in 19 appearances in his final season under Erik ten Hag and was released upon the expiration of his contract.

Martial said goodbye in May and sent an emotional farewell message to the club's supporters.

Image: Getty

He ended up signing for Greek side AEK Athens on a three-year contract, reportedly becoming their highest-paid player and linking up with former Spurs star Erik Lamela.

However, the 28-year-old is still yet to make a competitive appearance for his new club.