Martial edges towards joining Man United

Simon Wilkes

Anthony Martial has been allowed by the French national team “to travel to England to sign a contract with Man United” ahead of a reported £36m move.

The 19-year-old had been called up to the French national squad by Didier Deschamps ahead of the international break, but has now been granted permission to travel to Manchester to finalise a shock move to Old Trafford.

Both the Daily Mail and the Daily Telegraph reported on Monday morning that Martial would be the subject of a £36million approach from United, who are likely to be left with only Wayne Rooney and James Wilson as their recognised senior strikers. Javier Hernandez is expected to join Bayer Leverkusen on Monday.

A statement released on the French Football Federation’s website read: “He (Martial) requested from Didier Deschamps permission to travel to England to sign a contract with Manchester United.

“Given the exceptional circumstances, the coach has acceded to the request of the player.”

Martial is due to return to Clairefontaine on Tuesday morning, the FFF added.