Middlesbrough have enquired about Manchester United midfielder Andreas Pereira.
The 20-year-old was one of eight players told they have no immediate future at Old Trafford under Jose Mourinho a fortnight ago.
Paddy McNair and Donald Love may have already left for Sunderland but United are only willing to sanction a loan move for Pereira, with Aitor Karanka keen on taking him for the season.
Boro were also interested in signing the youngster at the back end of their Championship promotion campaign, with talks just prior to the final emergency loan window closing.
The top-flight new boys have recruited significantly under the guidance of Victor Orta ahead of their Premier League return, with a temporary switch to the Riverside seen as beneficial for Pereira.