Manchester United have reportedly lodged a bid for Saints target Marcos Rojo, with the Sporting Lisbon defender said to have handed in a transfer request as he bids to force a move to Old Trafford.

Saints boss Ronald Koeman last week confirmed an interest in the 24-year-old, who was part of the Argentina squad that reached the final of this summer’s World Cup.

However, United are now widely reported to have entered the race to sign the player, who can play at the heart of defence or at left-back.

Rojo is also reported to have handed in a transfer request, as he wishes to join Louis van Gaal’s team.

Saints are already closing in on another replacement for Dejan Lovren, with Steaua Bucharest defender Florin Gardos set to complete his move this week.