Manchester United 'closely following Benoit Badiashile'

Manchester United are reportedly exploring the possibility of signing Monaco defender Benoit Badiashile during this summer's transfer window.

The 19-year-old made 16 Ligue 1 appearances for his principality club before the 2019-20 campaign was called to a halt due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Badiashile has a contract with Monaco until the summer of 2024, but according to Footmercato, he could have played his last game for the club.

The report claims that United are 'closely' following the centre-back as they weigh up a move ahead of the 2020-21 campaign.

Monaco are believed to value the France Under-19 international at €30m (£27.3m) and have already allegedly rejected an offer of €20m (£18.2m) from Bundesliga giants Bayer Leverkusen.

The Red Devils could be in the market for a new central defender this summer as the speculation surrounding Chris Smalling's future continues to gather pace.