Man Utd willing to replace Pogba with AC Milan Bosman Kessie

Manchester United are stepping up interest in AC Milan midfielder Franck Kessie.

La Gazzetta dello Sport says the midfielder, 24, is out of contract at the end of the season and can negotiate with non-Italian clubs from January.

United have identified Kessie as a potential replacement for Paul Pogba, 28.

Like Kessie, Pogba's current deal runs out in June and it's still unclear whether he'll put pen to paper on an extension.

Kessie reportedly wants an €8million yearly salary - around £132,000-a-week - but Milan are only offering €6.5m.

The Ivory Coast international's alleged wage demands are well within United's budget, with the club currently paying Pogba £290,000-a-week.