Man Utd plot cut-price move for Real Madrid star in January, he could be an ideal signing

Manchester United are considering a cut-price move to sign Real Madrid forward Marco Asensio in January, according to reports.

Erik ten Hag's side will be initially exploring loan deals during the upcoming window, according to the Daily Mail, which likely rules out many big-money options.

As a result, they have had to look elsewhere, with the Red Devils heavily linked with a loan move for Joao Felix.

The 23-year-old will reportedly be allowed to leave Atletico Madrid on a temporary arrangement next month. But David Ornstein has claimed that the numbers involved in any deal are currently 'too high' for either Arsenal or United, who are believed to be leading the race for his services.

Despite this, new reports suggest that United have found another potential option to bolster their frontline.

Man Utd keen on Asensio

According to Spanish outlet Defensa Central, Ten Hag's side have turned their attentions to Asensio after failing to prevent Cody Gakpo's move to Liverpool.

They report that Real Madrid would not ask for more than €15-20 million to sell the Spain international to Old Trafford now, with his contract expiring in the summer.

Asensio has struggled for game time this season, making 11 appearances - all from the bench - in all competitions between the start of the season and late October.

He has, however, started four of Real's last six matches, with Karim Benzema's injury ruling him out of several pre-World Cup matches.

The 28-year-old played for Spain at the tournament, impressing during their 7-0 win over Costa Rica in the group stage.

He is also versatile, and play on either side of attack and a false nine if necessary.

That could prove to be a valuable asset for United, who may only bring in one forward player during January as they look to locate a replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo.

Defensa Central also claim that United could afford Asensio's wage demands, believed to be around €6 million a year, and would therefore be able to get a deal done during the window.