Manchester United have reportedly held talks with Roma midfielder Lorenzo Pellegrini.
Jose Mourinho is hoping to boost his struggling squad in the January transfer window after missing out on some of his top targets last summer.
Roma starlet Pellegrini has impressed for the Serie A outfit this season, scoring twice and chipping in with five assists, and his exploits are said to have caught Mourinho's eye.
Corriere dello Sport claim United chiefs started negotiations with the player's representatives in London with view to a winter move.
Pellegrini has a £27million release clause in his current deal, although Roma are attempting to nail him down to fresh terms.
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The 22-year-old would be in line for a major pay hike if he makes the move to Old Trafford.
David De Gea, Anthony Martial, Juan Mata, Ander Herrera, Chris Smalling, Phil Jones, Ashley Young and Antonio Valencia are among 12 United stars in the final year of their deals.
The club are expected to take up the option on the contracts of several of their players, but Mourinho wants to bring in reinforcements in the New Year after a stuttering start to the campaign.