Manchester United reportedly had a scout in attendance for Sunday's Ligue 1 clash between Dijon and Lille to monitor the performance of Boubakary Soumare ahead of a potential bid.
The 20-year-old continues to be linked with a move away from his French club during the January window.
Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur have all been credited with an interest in the midfielder, while United are also believed to be keen to secure his services before the end of the month.
According to The Express, the Red Devils sent a scout to watch Soumare in action against Dijon, who recorded a 1-0 victory on home soil courtesy of a second-half effort from Julio Tavares.
Soumare started for the visitors in the middle of the park but was sent off in the 67th minute when he picked up a second yellow card.
Lille are allegedly open to selling the France Under-21 international for the right price during the January transfer window, which has led to the 20-time English champions stepping up their interest.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side, who beat Norwich City 4-0 on Saturday afternoon, also continue to be linked with a move for Sporting Lisbon attacker Bruno Fernandes.
Matt Law
