Report: Manchester United target Morgan Schneiderlin closes in on Southampton exit

Morgan Schneiderlin dreams of playing in the Champions League

Manchester United have been alerted as Morgan Schneiderlin has more or less confirmed his departure from Southampton this season. However, the Saints are demanding £24 million for the former Strasbourg midfielder, who had a brilliant 2014/15 campaign at St. Mary’s. Arsenal and Tottenham are also reported to be monitoring his progress.

Reports have suggested that Schneiderlin has struck an agreement with Southampton, which will allow him to leave the club this year, after having his exit blocked by the club last season, when Tottenham came calling for him.

"The negotiations are ongoing and should be completed in the coming days, hopefully before the resumption of [pre-season] training next week," Schneiderlin said.

The 25-year-old has spent seven seasons at St. Mary’s but is now desperate to play for a club that plays in the Champions League. He is regarded as one of the best holding midfielders in England and could be a major midfield asset for any of his potential suitors.

Louis van Gaal has identified the French international as a possible alternative to Bayern Munich legend Bastian Schweinsteiger, who is said to be the Dutchman’s preferred central midfield target.

Southampton have reportedly offered a new deal worth £60,000 per week to Schneiderlin, who is contracted to the south-coast club for 2 more seasons.