Manchester United open talks to sign Nice full-back Melvin Bard

Manchester United have opened negotiations with Nice over the signing of defender Melvin Bard.

Tyrell Malacia has missed the entire campaign through injury, while Luke Shaw has missed large chunks of the season.

The club therefore feel they cannot go into next season without reinforcement at left-back and INEOS have identified the position as a priority.

Bard, 23, joined Nice from Lyon in 2021 and his performances this season have put him in with a chance of making France’s European Championships squad.

While predominantly a left-back, Bard can also play at left midfield and has two assists in 23 appearances this term.

Nice, owned by United minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, are willing to cash in on Bard this summer as he only has two years left on his deal.

Money will be tight at United this summer, despite Ratcliffe’s investment.

United are unlikely to qualify for the Champions League, which will push them further to their Financial Fair Play limits.

The club hope to agree a fee with Newcastle to release Dan Ashworth from his gardening leave, so that he can assume the position of Sporting Director.

Jason Wilcox will report into Ashworth once he serves his gardening leave at Southampton, though United hope to agree a compensation package with the Saints so that he can become a technical director at Old Trafford.

A striker, central midfielder and centre-back are also of interest to United this summer.

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