Manchester United have received encouragement today in their pursuit of Real Madrid midfielder Toni Kroos.

It's emerged United boss Jose Mourinho has approached Real about opening talks for the Germany international after learning his teammate, Gareth Bale, is now off the market.

Yesterday, it had been suggested Mourinho was referred to Kroos' €500m buyout clause by Real president Florentino Perez. However, Don Balon says Real's stance has now softened and there's a willingness to do business for €120m.

For their part, Mourinho and United believe a fee of €80m would be more realistic for a player of Kroos' age.