Manchester United are reportedly considering a plan B if they are unable to push a deal for Jadon Sancho over the line.
The Red Devils have been heavily linked with the Borussia Dortmund star in this transfer window, but the German club is refusing to budge on its asking price, which has resulted in lengthy delays.
However, Manchester Evening News has reported that if the Sancho deal becomes impossible to complete at this stage, United may turn their attention back to one of their older targets.
Manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is looking for reinforcements on the right wing, and could opt to sign Real Madrid star Gareth Bale as a short-term solution.
The Manchester club had previously been keen to rival Los Blancos for the signing of Bale from Tottenham Hotspur, and have also been linked with the Welshman in numerous transfer windows since.
Solskjaer has adopted a different strategy while at the helm, though, focusing on younger talent with lesser wage demands and a hunger to play for the club.
Bale, at 31 years old, does not exactly fit the strategy as he would arrive at Old Trafford with a hefty salary expectation and many of his best years behind him.
However, he could add instant quality and would be a leader in the dressing room, and also boasts significant Premier League experience which means he is less of a risk.
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United will reportedly continue to pursue Sancho, but if things do not start falling into place soon with the 5 October transfer deadline looming, they may have to switch to plan B.