Manchester United boss Mourinho identifies surprise alternative to Willian

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho has identified Croatia international Ante Rebic as an alternative to Chelsea winger Willian, reports The Independent.

Mourinho is keen to reunite with Willian at Old Trafford but knows the chances of signing the Brazil international are slim.

Chelsea are open to the sale of Willian but have already rejected three offers from Barcelona and are holding out for £70m.

Barcelona have seemingly pulled the plug on their pursuit of the 29-year-old and instead wrapped up a deal for 21-year-old Bordeaux forward Malcom for a fraction of the price.

United signed Nemanja Matic from Chelsea last summer but are unlikely to sign off on a £70m deal for Willian, who turns 30 in a matter of weeks.

Mourinho has instead earmarked Rebic as a top transfer target following the Croatian’s success at the 2018 World Cup.

Rebic was a revelation for the World Cup finalists and Bundesliga side Frankfurt face a tough task holding on to his services for next season.

The 24-year-old demonstrated his ability throughout the tournament, combining class for his stunning goal against Argentina with tenacity and aggression in his workload.

Mourinho has grown increasingly frustrated by United’s lack of action in the transfer market this summer and wants at least two signings before the season starts next month.

United chief executive Ed Woodward still retains hopes of finally prising Gareth Bale away from Real Madrid and that could further frustrate Mourinho, who now wants players through the door as quickly as possible.

Rebic committed at least six more fouls than any other player at the 2018 World Cup (21), illustrating the physical nature of his game.