Chelsea might be made to pay for failing to force through a move for Everton’s John Stones.
The MirrorĀ report that Manchester United have entered into talks over the England centre-back, and could steal a march on their Premier League rivals.
Everton are thought to be unhappy with Jose Mourinho’s public comments about the defender, who is likely to cost more than Ā£25m.
Mourinho has questioned the Toffees’ valuation of the defender, who has made fewer than 100 senior career appearances.
But this could open the door to United, who may opt for a player-plus-cash deal involving Jonny Evans.