Manchester United reportedly had a loan bid for Bayern Munich midfielder Corentin Tolisso turned down during the January transfer window.
Scott McTominay and Paul Pogba have been long-term absentees for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, and United were keen to strengthen their midfield last month.
The club were successful in acquiring Bruno Fernandes from Sporting Lisbon but are said to have failed in a last-minute move for the French international.
According to the Manchester Evening News, United offered to take Tolisso on a six-month loan, but it was rejected by Bayern who had fears over their own squad depth.
The former Lyon midfielder has not been a regular starter since his arrival in 2017, making 10 Bundesliga appearances this season so far.
Since joining Bayern the Frenchman has made 63 appearances, scoring 14 goals.