Jose Mourinho is keen to take advantage of the uncertainty surrounding Mesut Ozil’s future and wants to bring him to Manchester United this summer, according to The Mirror.
The tabloid claims the Portuguese remains a big fan of the Germany international, the pair having worked together at Real Madrid, and feels he can get the best out of him at Old Trafford.
Ozil’s contract expires next summer and he is yet to agree a new deal with manager Arsene Wenger claiming negotiations have now been put on hold until the end of the season.
There is some doubt over the tabloid’s report, however, with the Mirror claiming Mourinho was furious that Madrid sold Ozil without his permission, when it was actually Carlo Ancelotti in charge when the German departed the club.
Ozil has previously hinted that his decision may well be determined by whether Wenger stays at the club, and the expectation currently is that the Frenchman will remain in charge.
The 28-year-old has frequently come in for criticism this season, particularly during Arsenal’s recent poor run, and has admitted he feels he always gets the blame when the Gunners suffer a poor result.
Manchester United are widely expected to spend big yet again this summer and would certainly have the finances to afford a move for Ozil although whether he would be a priority remains to be seen.
Ozil, meanwhile, was back on form last time out against West Ham with a goal and an assist in a 3-0 win and will be hoping for more against Crystal Palace on Monday.