Manchester United are making a surprise late move for River Plate midfielder Exequiel Palacios.

The Sun says United made a hurried check on Argentinian star Palacios last night amid rumours he is set to join Real Madrid.

United sent a top spy to watch the River Plate No 10 play bitter Argentine rivals Boca Juniors in the Copa Libertadores final in Buenos Aires today.

Palacios, 20, has already won two caps and has been on United's radar for some time.

But reports of Real Madrid offering £15million have reached Old Trafford where they are running out of time and opportunities to intercept.

United's priority for January's transfer window is a centre-half to fix a problem area for Mourinho -but now long-term target Palacios could be off to a rival.