MARSEILLE have reportedly made contact with Manchester United over a loan deal for Eric Bailly.
But the Red Devils are said to be only willing to let the defender leave on a permanent transfer.
L’Equipe claims Marseille are looking for a centre-back after failing to keep hold of Arsenal’s William Saliba
And Bailly, 28, has emerged as their top target.
The Ivorian is entering his seventh season at Old Trafford.
But he has never been able to nail down a regular starting spot, featuring just seven times last term.
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Roma have been linked with a move for Bailly, as have Italian rivals AC Milan.
Fulham also looked at Bailly before swooping for West Ham’s Issa Diop.
And the Hammers themselves are now considering Bailly as Diop’s replacement.
However, Marseille are now thought to be leading the race, with Bailly keen on making the move and playing in the Champions League.
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But the French side only want him on loan for now, with an option to make things permanent if things go well.
That won’t fly with United though, who would rather keep hold of Bailly unless they can get rid of him for a permanent transfer fee.
The ex-Villarreal man is now fifth choice following the arrival of Lisandro Martinez.
But a compromise could be worked out between now and the end of the transfer window.
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