Manchester United lead race for Morgan Schneiderlin?

Manchester United are reportedly in the box seat to sign Southampton midfielder Morgan Schneiderlin.

The 25-year-old has been a consistent performer for the Saints in the past 18 months, and it is thought that Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur have been monitoring him.

United boss Louis van Gaal is said to be keen to find another player to anchor his midfield to provide an alternative for Michael Carrick, who has spent time on the sidelines with injury this season.

The Dutchman has been previously linked with Kevin Strootman and Ilkay Gundogan, but it is believed that he has now turned his attention to Schneiderlin.

According to the Daily Mail, Schneiderlin's head has been turned after United made enquiries to take him to Old Trafford.

The report adds that Southampton value the France international at around £25m, although United are yet to make any formal bid.

Southampton signed Schneiderlin from Strasbourg in 2008.