According to Spanish media outlet AS, Manchester United are ready to hijack Chelsea’s move for Sevilla defender Jules Kounde in January.

Chelsea tried to sign Kounde from Sevilla in the summer and the Blues offered a fee of £42.5million which was rejected by the Spanish side. Sevilla demanded £69million to sell the 22 year old defender.

Chelsea reportedly still hold an interest in the defender and have shortlisted Kounde alongside Matthijs De Ligt as potential new centre-back options for next year.

However, Manchester United are looking to beat Chelsea for the signature of the defender, with the Red Devils keen on solving our own problems in defence.

Summer signing Raphael Varane’s start to life at Old Trafford has been blighted by injury, while Harry Maguire’s struggles have continued.

According to the report, United, who currently sit sixth after four defeats, are monitoring the defender and could meet Sevilla’s demands.