Anthony Martial heading to Manchester

National team manager Didier Deschamps has granted Anthony Martial permission to leave the France training squad to "sign a contract with Manchester United".

Recent reports in France claimed that the Red Devils had made an offer in the region of £36m to Monaco for their 19-year-old striker.

Neither club has commented on the speculation, but in a statement this morning, the France Football Federation revealed that Martial had requested to be temporarily released so that he could finalise a switch to Old Trafford.

"He requested from Didier Deschamps permission to travel to England to sign a contract with Manchester United. Given the exceptional circumstances, the coach has acceded to the request of the player," read the statement.

The FFF also confirmed that Martial will return to France's training base in Clairefontaine tomorrow, which has suggested that United could secure the youngster's services within the next few hours.