Man United will need to pay a huge asking price to sign Rennes striker Martin Terrier, according to prominent journalist Fabrizio Romano.
The Red Devils, along with Arsenal and Leeds, have both been heavily linked with the Frenchman this week as the January transfer window nears ever closer.
For United, manager Erik ten Hag has reportedly prioritised a goalscorer as his next signing.
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And Terrier certainly is that, with 21 Ligue 1 goals in 37 appearances last season.
He has started the current campaign in similar form, smashing in eight goals in just 13 games for Rennes in the league. Only three players - Kylian Mbappe, Neymar and Jonathan David - have scored more.
Terrier has also made an impact in the Europa League, with three goals in the group stage.
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Rennes could progress as group winners should they better Fenerbahce's result, or there is a one or two-goal swing in their favour (depending on goals scored).
Rennes are also second in Ligue 1, three points behind leaders Lens, who have had a perfect start to the season after seven games.
The French club, therefore, would be keen to keep hold of one of their star players - meaning that, according to Romano, they would command a high asking price.
Fabrizio Romano on Martin Terrier
Speaking as part of his CaughtOffside column, Romano outlined how much Man United, and any other interested teams, will have to pay to prize Terrier away from Rennes.
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He explained: "What a season Martin Terrier is having, and it's inevitably led to links with Premier League clubs in recent times. But what's the truth?
"He's doing fantastic, and so there are always scouts following him from English clubs, and also Serie A clubs.
"Sources close to Rennes guarantee they'd ask for €45-50m for Terrier. But nothing is happening yet.
"I think he'll have a fair few options. But it's too early to say anything concrete on his future right now."
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The €45-50 million (around £40m) sum certainly appears affordable for United, but they may have to wait until summer before making a move for the striker.
That is because, as per the Manchester Evening News, the Red Devils are not 'actively planning' incomings in January - but that could all change if one or more of the club's attacking players are ruled out of action.
Terrier has received praise from a number of prominent figures in football - not least Arsenal legend Thierry Henry. The France legend said in May (quote via Get France Football News) that he likes the 25-year-old 'a lot'.
Featured Image Credit: AlamyTopics: Manchester United, Fabrizio Romano, Erik Ten Hag, Arsenal, Leeds United