Wolves make first move for Manchester United target Benoit Badiashile?

Wolverhampton Wanderers are thought to have made a formal offer for Monaco defender Benoit Badiashile.

The 18-year-old enjoyed an impressive breakthrough into the first team last term, making 26 appearances in all competitions in what was a generally-underwhelming campaign for the French side, who found themselves caught up in a surprise relegation battle.

In recent days Manchester United are said to have turned their attentions to Badiashile as a cut-price alternative to Harry Maguire, but according to L'Equipe, Wolves have stolen a march on their Premier League rivals with a concrete proposal for the youngster.

The newspaper says that the Midlands outfit want to take him on loan for 2019-20 with an option to buy next summer - a favoured tactic for the Chinese-owned club, who have had similar deals in place for Raul Jimenez, Leander Dendoncker and Diogo Jota in recent seasons.

The size of the transfer fee is unknown, although Monaco are thought to value the player at around £35m.

Badiashile has just two years remaining on his current contract with the principality side.