Manchester United 'make contact with Tanguy Ndombele'

Manchester United have taken the first steps towards signing Lyon's in-demand midfielder Tanguy Ndombele, according to a report.

The 22-year-old is believed to be at the centre of a transfer tug of war between United and bitter rivals Manchester City.

Le 10 Sport suggests that the Red Devils have already made contact with the four-cap France international's representatives as they are desperate to see off the competition from City.

The Citizens are believed to have fallen short with a previous offer for Ndombele last summer, but they will reignite their interest as they have yet to bring in a replacement for Fernandinho in the holding midfield position.

Ndombele can also play in a slightly more advanced role and has thrived for Lyon since initially joining on loan last season, leading to the French side splashing out around £7m to sign him permanently.

Lyon are now rumoured to be after in excess of £70m for the former Amiens ace, however, with Juventus also being touted as a possible next destination.