Manchester United have made contact with Real Madrid about a price for Luka Modric. United have tabled a bid of £26 million this week to Barcelona for Cesc Fabregas, but have received little encouragement from the Nou Camp.

Sky Italia says United are covering their bases as they seek a new midfield signing for manager David Moyes and are now in contact with Real for Modric.

The former Tottenham playmaker knows his place at Real is under threat following the arrival of Asier Illarramendi and new coach Carlo Ancelotti's support of Kaka.