Manchester United have stepped up their pursuit of Sporting CP midfielder Joao Palhinha.

Correio da Manha says a raft of clubs across Europe are interested in the Portugal international, though United are considered leading the race.

Palhinha has made 12 international appearances for Portugal and the 26-year-old is available this summer for £25m.

The midfielder's deal wth Sporting runs to 2026.

Palhinha is understood to be a favourite of United technical chief John Murtough.