Manchester United round-up: Bale latest; mystery Chinese buyer wants shares in club; defender set for loan

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Manchester United look set for disappointment in their pursuit of Gareth Bale as The Guardian say that Real Madrid have informed the Welshman that he is the future of the club and any move for Monaco’s Kylian Mbappe will not take place until next summer. His potential arrival had sparked doubts over the future of Bale in Madrid.

United were believed to be keen on giving the forward the option to return to the Premier League, where he had great success with Tottenham. However, it now seems that Jose Mourinho and co. will at least have to wait another year before they stand any chance of bringing their target to Manchester.

That may be made easier if there are greater funds available, as could be the case with fresh investment. The Times say that a billionaire investor from China is looking to buy shares in the club. The Glazer family currently own 80% of the club but there is speculation that they may be willing to sell a share of that control.

New investment would likely please Jose Mourinho, with it likely that the new investor would be willing to plow money into the club to secure some high profile targets. At this stage, there is little detail to reports with the investor still not publicly identified, and it may take some time for these rumours to come to fruition.

Meanwhile, young defender Cameron Borthwick-Jackson is nearing a move away from Old Trafford, say the Manchester Evening News, as he has now undergone a medical at Leeds United. After a disappointing loan spell at Wolverhampton Wanderers last season, he will be looking to prove himself in the second tier.

A versatile option across the backline, the 20-year-old usually plays at left-back. His prospects at Old Trafford are limited this season but may be aided if he can impress at Elland Road.