Struggling Euro giants emerge as surprise contenders for Man Utd misfit

Galatasaray have become the latest side to show an interest in unsettled Manchester United midfielder Nemanja Matic, according to reports.

Matic has fallen behind Scott McTominay and Fred in the pecking order at Old Trafford this season, making just two starts in the Premier League.

With just six months left on his contract, the 31-year-old is expected to move on, with the Daily Star claiming Ed Woodward has told him that he will be sold in January, along with Marcos Rojo.

So far, Inter Milan have emerged as a potential suitor, with former Chelsea boss Antonio Conte seeking reinforcements as his side look to keep up their pursuit of dethroning Juventus as Serie A champions. Injuries have shortened his midfield options, so a reunion with Matic could alleviate his concerns.

Atletico Madrid are also interested in taking the player to La Liga, with the belief he could help them on the European stage as well. Diego Simeone’s side are due to play Liverpool in the Round of 16 of the Champions League.

The Serbian international could even stay in the Premier League, after refusing to rule out a reunion with Jose Mourinho at Tottenham.

“As I know, you never know what’s going to happen in life,” he told Omnisport. “At the moment I’m a Manchester United player and very focused on my job and in the future we will see what’s going to happen.”

However, Fanatik (via Sport Witness) add that Galatasaray would also like to push for Matic, due to two high-profile moves not working out.

They signed Steven Nzonzi from Roma and Jean-Michael Seri from Fulham, both on loan, over the summer, but neither player has been a success. Seri has been limited to just five league starts, while Nzonzi has been punished for poor discipline and has publicly criticised his teammates.

Therefore, the Istanbul-based side are looking for a more reliable option in the middle, and are ready to try their luck in the race to sign Matic.