Real Madrid are interested in Manchester United defender Eric Bailly.

The Sun says Bailly is set to be handed an unlikely escape route this summer, with a return to Spain with Real Madrid .

It's claimed that sources close to Bailly are aware United are ready to move on defensive targets and that they believe Bernabeu chiefs have the Ivorian on a list of 'first-tier' targets this summer.

One of Zinedine Zidane's first tasks is persuading World Cup winner Raphael Varane to stay put, amid interest in the France international and suggestions that he is keen on a new challenge.

If Zidane is successful in doing so - and Madrid have already made clear that they have no interest in selling Varane - then chances of a move for Bailly would seem extremely slight, regardless of the thoughts of the player's camp.