Manchester United 'step up Jack Grealish pursuit'

Manchester United are reportedly prepared to up their efforts to secure a deal for Aston Villa midfielder Jack Grealish.

In recent months, United have been heavily linked with an approach for the playmaker, who may be allowed to leave his boyhood club in the summer.

While the next transfer window does not open until June, the Manchester Evening News claims that United intend to put in the groundwork for a deal in the coming weeks.

Aware that the 24-year-old's value could rise before the end of the campaign, United allegedly want to agree terms with Villa as soon as possible.

Grealish has contributed seven goals and six assists in the Premier League this season, a return which has put him on the brink of a call-up to the England squad.

Villa may have to cash in on their star man in order to boost their position with FFP.