MANCHESTER UNITED have approached Lens over an £8million swoop for Jonathan Clauss but face competition from Chelsea, according to reports.
The Blues have been long-term admirers of the Lens right-back and scouted him throughout the 2021-22 season.
However, United have roared into pole position in the race to sign Clauss, 29, as Erik ten Hag looks to fix a key problem area.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka – a £50m buy in 2019 – looks set to be sold this summer after struggling mightily last term, with Diogo Dalot the only other senior right-back.
Ten Hag has already signed Tyrrell Malacia to bolster his left-side of defence and hopes Clauss can plug a gaping hole on the right.
United have already approached Ligue 1 side Lens over an £8m swoop, according to the Evening Standard.
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However, the Red Devils must battle Chelsea for Clauss' signature.
The Blues have been keen on the wing-back for a while and see him as cover for Reece James.
Thomas Tuchel is also desperate to find a replacement for Cesar Azpilicueta with Barcelona on the brink of signing the versatile defender.
Azpilicueta is keen to head back to Spain with Barca itching to complete the deal.
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But the LaLiga giants are yet to meet Chelsea's £7m valuation, which will give Ten Hag hope of stealing a march on their rivals.
United have also got their eye on a shock move for Southampton's former Tottenham defender Kyle Walker-Peters after a stunning 2021-22 campaign saw him earn his debut England cap.
But Clauss remains a top target, with the experienced defender earning his first four France caps earlier this year after helping Lens' rise up the leagues.
Clauss played 37 times in Ligue 1 last season as Lens finished a superb seventh.
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The right-back scored five times and laid on 11 assists.
Marseille and Atletico Madrid are also believed to be keen on the Frenchman.
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