Transfers: Manchester United ready to battle Arsenal for France midfielder

Manchester United's over-reliance on Michael Carrick this season has made a central midfielder a top priority for Louis van Gaal, but with Paul Pogba seemingly out of reach the Red Devils have turned their attention to a French midfielder currently residing closer to home

Morgan Schneiderlin has impressed in Southampton's two seasons in the top flight, but until now it had been widely expected that the 25-year-old would end up moving to Arsenal for a fee of around £25million. But United's interest will be music to Ronald Koeman's ears as he can now hope a bidding war will be sparked for a player he is nearly resigned to losing this summer. (Mirror) A run of injuries kept United's defence off balance for most of the season, so Van Gaal is also looking to strengthen his options at the back, with a move for Bayern Munich's Brazilian defender Dante. (Bild) With Schneiderlin heading out the door, Koeman will be even more determined to complete a £7million permanent deal for Belgian centre-half Toby Alderweireld after his successful loan season from Atletico Madrid. But Chelsea have jumped in to make things difficult for the Dutchman. (Mirror) Liverpool's laborious pursuit of some firepower may be finally about to show some progress. The club are reportedly one of three teams to have activated the €20million release clause in Luciano Vietto's agreement with Villarreal. The 21-year-old Argentine scored 20 times for the Spanish club last year and would arguably be a better fit at Anfield than Christian Benteke and at roughly half the price. Unfortunately for Liverpool, the other two clubs interested in Vietto are Arsenal and Atletico Madrid, both of whom can offer Champions League football to the young forward. (AS) It's safer to assume that long-time target Danny Ings will end up on Merseyside, and talks with the 23-year-old Burnley man are already underway following the end of his contract with the relegated club. (Independent) At the back, Simon Mignolet will be pleased to hear of Liverpool's interest in Cardiff shot-stopper David Marshall, who would bring in much-needed competition for the inconsistent goalkeeper but would not be expected to seize the number one jersey straight away. (Wales Online) Finally, Theo Walcott's future at Arsenal could be resolved soon. The 26-year-old FA Cup hero was celebrating the Gunners' final victory yesterday and believes his contract will be sorted out, although the process 'will take time'. (Independent)