Manchester United are stepping up interest in Sporting CP midfielder Joao Palhinha.

The Mirror says United are interested in defensive midfielder Palhinha, who has just signed a new deal at his Portuguese club.

The deal runs until 2026 but is understood to have been more about Sporting protecting the value of their asset.

The release clause in the deal is close to £50million but Sporting will listen to offers north of £20m, with performance-based add-ons.

United scouts are understood to have watched Palhinha in at least eight matches this season, with suggestions in Portugal that the club has a preferential option to buy him with Sporting.

United would have to commit to buy Palhinha no later than the first week of June, or Sporting will offer him elsewhere.

Atletico Madrid are also interested but would struggle to meet Sporting's valuation of the player, while Wolves are also keen but the player does not fancy a move to Molineux.