Manchester United and Chelsea make enquiry for Bayern Munich midfielder

Manchester United and Chelsea are leading the charge for Thiago Alcantara after making an approach for the Bayern Munich midfielder, ESPN.

Thiago is free to leave Bayern this summer after dropping down the pecking order but the Bundesliga side have struggled to find any suitors.

The Spain international’s reported preference is to return to Barcelona and the La Liga champions are also open to the idea of re-signing the 27-year-old.

Thiago is regarded an elite central midfielder and Chelsea and United are keen on his acquiring his services before the start of the upcoming season.

The Premier League duo desperately needs to bolster their midfield options and Thiago has emerged as an obtainable option for both sides.

United are aware of Bayern’s reported interest in Anthony Martial, but it remains to be seen whether an agreement can be made for both players.

It was previously claimed Bayern would hope to command €70m (£62.4m), which should swing a potential deal in United's favour.

Thiago, who has spent the last five years at Bayern, only started 12 league games last season and Leon Goretzka’s arrival has pushed him closer to leaving.

Despite limited game time last term, only Daniel Baier (162) has completed more interceptions than Thiago (152) in the last two Bundesliga seasons.