Adrien Rabiot ‘believes he’s sure to start in weak Man Utd midfield as he seeks transfer to make France World Cup squad’

ADRIEN RABIOT believes he is sure to start in Manchester United's "weak midfield" as he bids to make France's World Cup squad, according to reports.

The 27-year-old appears to be drawing closer to a move to Old Trafford as Erik ten Hag looks to beef up his under-fire midfield.

Fred and Scott McTominay started Sunday's disappointing defeat to Brighton, a pairing that has often been criticised by United fans.

Reports from France suggest that Rabiot believes he can walk straight into United's midfield.

This is crucial for the Frenchman, who is looking to break into France's squad for the World Cup in Qatar.

L'Equipe report that Rabiot sees United as giving him the opportunity to "muscle in" on Didier Deschamps' team selection.

They claim that he sees his place in Ten Hag's team as "almost guaranteed" due to his "weak" competition.

The claim comes following Rabiot's exclusion from the main World Cup squad in 2018, as his boss instead tried to place him on the reserve list.

Rabiot controversially then refused to be on the reserve list and withdrew from it.

The midfielder is believed to have since patched things up with Deschamps and is fighting to be included this time round.

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His move to United now looks close, with his mum agent tasked with helping to get the deal over the line.

United have turned their attention to Rabiot after their attempt to lure Frenkie de Jong to Manchester came frustratingly unstuck.

Along with the player's contractual disputes with Barcelona, the Red Devils have also had to contend with Chelsea challenging for his signature.