Manchester United are hopeful of landing Southampton's Morgan Schneiderlin before flying to the United States on Monday to start their summer tour as the Saints manager, Ronald Koeman, is keen to replace the midfielder as soon as possible.

Louis van Gaal has had one bid of around £20m rejected by the St Mary’s club, with Koeman valuing Schneiderlin at £27m. However, United believe the player could be acquired for closer to £25m.

While it is understood that a second offer is yet to be lodged for the 25-year-old, United have noted Koeman’s comments on Monday when he signalled Schneiderlin would be sold for the right price.

This was a clear message that the manager is already planning for next season without the Frenchman. Koeman wants to bring in Schneiderlin's replacement as early as he can and is targeting the Feyenoord midfielder Jordy Clasie. This means there is a view at Old Trafford that the deal can be done in time for Schneiderlin to be part of the touring party though there is a recognition that time is pressing.

Southampton have at the same time signed the defender Cuco Martina from the Dutch side Twente.

Van Gaal has added only Memphis Depay, from PSV Eindhoven, in the summer window. As the manager has just the four tour matches of competitive football before United start the season on August 8th against Tottenham Hotspur, Van Gaal wants to have as settled a squad as possible.

Currently there is a state of flux. The future of Robin van Persie, who may join Fenerbahce, is in the balance so the manager may need to acquire another high-class striker.

Where Real Madrid target David de Gea will play next term is unclear. Van Gaal also wants a right-back and centre-back so there is still much work to be done to ensure the manager has the acquisitions he desires.

Guardian Service