Fenerbahce manager Jose Mourinho is working closely with the club’s sporting director on a potential deal for Manchester United defender Victor Lindelof, according to Sabah.
The Sweden international was regularly linked with a move away from Old Trafford last summer, and it was claimed that he could be reunited with Mourinho in Istanbul.
However, a transfer did not materialise. The 30-year-old picked up a toe injury during pre-season and only returned to the bench in late September.
Lindelof made his first appearance of the campaign against Aston Villa. He replaced Noussair Mazraoui in the right-back position after half-time and played 53 minutes.
Fenerbahce’s sporting director, Mario Branco, is reportedly working on possible targets with Mourinho and Lindelof on their radar.
They are closely monitoring his situation as his contract expires next summer. Fenerbahce will be free to negotiate with the Swede over a pre-contract in January.
There is no indication whether the club want him this winter or will wait until the end of the season.
Lindelof most likely to leave on a free transfer
United have had a tough time with defensive injuries over the past 18 months, and the trend has continued.
Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia are yet to return, which has forced Erik ten Hag to play Diogo Dalot at left-back.
Lindelof only recently returned from the sidelines, but the club are now without Harry Maguire. He is out for the next few weeks after picking up calf issue last weekend.
Leny Yoro has yet to make his competitive debut after suffering a foot injury in pre-season.
United are unlikely to entertain Lindelof’s exit at the midway stage of the campaign, considering the need for depth in case of untimely injuries.
Matthijs de Ligt and Lisandro Martinez have also been injury-prone in recent times, and the club can’t afford to weaken the squad during the next transfer window.
If Lindelof wants to reunite with the former United boss, he may have to wait for a free transfer next summer. A pre-contract can be agreed in January.
United are most likely to sign another young centre-back next summer.
Stats from Sofascore.com.
