Despite the uncertainty regarding Manchester United's managerial personnel for next term, recruitment continues apace.

The Red Devils play their re-arranged fixture with AFC Bournemouth on Tuesday following Sunday afternoon's security fiasco, but behind the scenes, Ed Woodward is casting his ever-expanding net.

The latest reports, via James Ducker of the Telegraph, suggest United are taking an interest in midfield pair Leroy Sané and Joao Mario.

Sane previously linked to city rivals

Sané currently plies his trade in the Bundesliga with Schalke 04, after coming through the youth ranks with the Gelsenkirchen club.

After two seasons with Die Königsblauen, the 20-year-old has amassed 47 appearances, including eleven goals. Last November, the German attacking midfielder was called up by Joachim Löwe for the international friendly with France and is part of Die Mannschaft's squad for Euro 2016.

Back in March, however, The Guardian reported that it was indeed United's rivals Manchester City that had been eyeing up Sané, with Pep Guardiola Etihad-bound in the summer and the Spaniard being a known admirer.  

Whether City and United are set for a transfer tussle in the coming weeks, remains to be seen.

Could Mario become latest in line of Portuguese?

United's other target - for the time being - is Portuguese midfielder, João Mario. The 23-year-old has officially been with Sporting Club since 2004, however, he spent the 2013/14 term on loan with fellow Primeira Liga side Vitória Setubal.

Joao Mario has scored 10 league goals in the last two campaigns (photo:getty)
Joao Mario has scored 10 league goals in the last two campaigns | Photo: Getty

In the last two campaigns in Portugal, the midfielder has 57 appearances to his name and has more than a passing resemblance to Fernandinho, although of more diminutive stature. Mario was also part of Portugal's 2015 U-21 European Championship side, that lost to Sweden in the final on penalties.

Given previous experiences between the two clubs also, any interest may not be too much of a surprise. Nani was recruited from Sporting back in 2007 and made over 100 appearances for United. Then, of course, there is a one Cristiano Ronaldo.

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About the author
Neil Leverett
33 year old writer living in London. Arsenal fan but all rounder, specializing in sporting analysis, in particular football.