‘Concrete steps’: Journalist shares what he’s heard on United’s plans to pursue £26m Arsenal and Liverpool target

Manchester United are reportedly ready to ignite their pursuit of Monaco’s Youssouf Fofana ahead of the January transfer window opening.

The Red Devils joined fierce rivals Arsenal and Liverpool in monitoring the midfielder back in November, as shared by 90min. Now, United are looking to poke their noses in front of the race by stepping up their interest.

Fofana, 24, has played a pivotal role at the heart of Monaco’s midfield as of late, so much so that he’s attracted the eyes of some of Europe’s elite to try and sway him away from the Ligue 1 outfit.

Erik ten Hag has been forced to navigate the absences of almost every outfield player at some stage this term, with United having to overcome one of their most debilitating injury crises fans have ever seen and therefore, making it no surprise that the Dutchman is looking for reinforcements at the earliest opportunity.

Aside from the countless layoffs, United will also be without on-loan midfielder Sofyan Amrabat for a period in January when he departs to represent Morocco in the Africa Cup of Nations. Andre Onana has also received a call-up for Cameroon, but second-choice Altay Bayindir is expected to fill his void between the sticks.

United readying Fofana approach

Transfer reporter Rudy Galetti took to X, formerly Twitter, to reveal that the Reds ‘are ready to take concrete steps’ for Fofana. In turn, Monaco have outlined their price tag at around €30 million (£26m) to sanction the 15-cap France international’s exit, who is contracted to the club until 2025.