Manchester United are stepping up their pursuit of River Plate striker Jorge Alvarez.

United have held talks with River about the 21 year-old Argentina international in recent weeks.

And TyC Sports says the player's agent, Fernando Hidalgo, has even 'received a call' from United regarding a transfer.

Alvarez, 21, has a reputed €20m release clause in his current deal at River Plate.

The young cente-forward is emerging as a hottest transfer property in South America ahead of the January market.