Eric Bailly 'open to Manchester United exit this month'

Eric Bailly is reportedly open to the idea of leaving Manchester United on loan before the end of the January transfer window.

The 27-year-old is not currently available for selection due to his involvement at the Africa Cup of Nations for Ivory Coast, but he struggled to secure regular action in the first half of the season.

Bailly only signed a new contract with Man United last April, but he is behind Harry Maguire, Raphael Varane and Victor Lindelof in the pecking order for the centre-back spots at Old Trafford.

According to ESPN, the Ivorian is open to leaving Ralf Rangnick's side on loan this month but fears that he could be priced out of a mid-season switch.

The report claims that Man United would require a loan fee for Bailly, in addition to his full wage packet being covered for the remainder of the campaign.

The defender, who arrived at the club from Villarreal in July 2016, has featured on seven occasions for the Red Devils this season, including four outings in the Premier League.