Simeone eyes bosman move for Herrera

Atletico's interest in the player is nothing new, with English publication 'The Daily Mail' having reported as long ago as summer 2016 that Diego Simeone's side were tracking the Basque.

Herrera has largely enjoyed his time at Old Trafford since joining the club from Athletic Bilbao in 2014 and was a key player as United did the League Cup and Europa League double last season.

However, according to 'AS' this season has been a different story completely, with Herrera being no means guaranteed gametime and only managing to force his way into the side in the absences of Marouane Fellaini, Paul Pogba and Michael Carrick.

The arrival of Nemanja Matic in the summer and Fellaini's rennaissance have pushed the 28-year-old down the pecking order under Jose Mourinho and with his contract set to expire next summer, Herrera is thought to be considering his options.

Atletico are rumoured to be ready to offer Herrera a regular staring place, something that would be hard for the player to turn down at this stage in his career. Herrera perfectly fits the profile of an Atletico Madrid player, he is tenacious, tactically aware and tidy in possession, all characteristics that make him perfect for a role in Diego Simeone's engine room.

As things stand, 'Los Colchoneros' will be able to open talks with the player in less than two months, however, United are thought to have a 12-month option on his contract similar to the one used on Marouane Fellaini last season.

With Fellaini out of contract at the end of the season and with doubts as to Carrick's longevity, it would be a surprise to see United let the Spaniard go without a fight... or a replacement.