Manchester United Reportedly Start Talks with Ante Rebic's Agent over Transfer

Manchester United have reportedly made contact with the agent of Eintracht Frankfurt forward Ante Rebic over a possible transfer.

According to Sport Bild, the Red Devils are keen to secure the Croatia international, as relayed by Goal's Ronan Murphy:

It was reported on Tuesday by Miguel Delaney of The Independent that United were eyeing the 24-year-old as an alternative for Chelsea winger Willian or Inter Milan star Ivan Perisic—the latter is said to be valued at a staggering £80 million by his current club.

"Any pursuit would not quite be as complicated as other targets, since there is now a feeling [Rebic] could do with a step-up from Eintracht Frankfurt, though United could face competition from Bayern Munich were they to eventually make a move," Delaney said.

The Independent report added the Red Devils remain keen to sign a wide player and have also yet to completely give up hope of doing a deal for Real Madrid's Gareth Bale.

In comparison to Bale, Perisic or Willian, Rebic is not a household name and probably not a player that will get pulses races if he was to arrive at Old Trafford. Still, there's no doubt he's a talent.

The Frankfurt man was crucial to Croatia's run to the FIFA World Cup final in the summer, as he and Perisic provided dynamic and aggressive threats out wide for the Valtreni.

The Match of the Day Twitter account illustrated how Rebic is not scared to put himself about:

The winger caught the eye with his energy and tenacity during his time in Russia, although he also showcased plenty of technical quality.

In Croatia's memorable 3-0 win over Argentina, he opened the scoring by capitalising on a major blunder from Willy Caballero to thump home an exquisite volley. He and Perisic also showcased versatility, swapping flanks to give defenders different issues to contend with.

While he impressed at the World Cup, Rebic went into the tournament on the back of a fine campaign with Frankfurt, helping the team win the DFB-Pokal.

The Bundesliga Twitter account highlighted some of the best moments from his season:

Meanwhile, Daniel Storey of Football365 noted that Frankfurt have only just completed the bargain acquisition of the player:

United have a number of players in their squad most comfortable playing on the left flank, including Alexis Sanchez, Anthony Martial, Marcus Rashford and Jesse Lingard. Someone like Rebic, who can play across the front line, will provide them with a more versatile option.

Even so, it's debatable whether he'd be a significant upgrade.

Sport Witness said there are doubts in Germany about how ready Rebic is for a big move:

His work rate and feistiness make the Croatian an ideal player for the way in which Mourinho sets his team up. Rebic could certainly not be accused of being a passenger in his play and will not shirk tactical responsibilities.

Still, a move to United would be a major leap for the forward and the pressure to succeed would be enormous given the fee mentioned.