United join the race for Toure

Reports in the Spanish press claim that Manchester United are preparing a bid for Barcelona's defensive midfielder Yaya Toure.

The Red Devils are apparently set to offer €21 million to prise Ivorian midfielder Yaya Toure away from the Nou Camp.

Manager Sir Alex Ferguson is understood to be keen to strengthen United's midfield given the constant injuries plaguing Owen Hargreaves and the loss of form from the likes of Michael Carrick and Anderson.

While the United coach has publicly stated that he will only be making one more signing this season, after the club secured the services of Mexican striker Javi Hernandez and Fulham defender Chris Smalling, a report in Spanish publication Sport says that Ferguson has made inquiries about Toure.

While Barca coach Pep Guardiola is said to be keen to retain the services of the 27-year old Ivorian, reports on Wednesday stated that the Catalan outfit would consider releasing the player for a fee of €30-35 million.

Toure is believed to be seeking a move away from the Nou Camp and has been linked with both Chelsea and Arsenal over the past few weeks.