Manchester United have clearly been listening to Dimitar Berbatov as they are reportedly part of a three-club race to sign Paris Saint-Germain’s Marco Verratti.

Earlier this month, former United striker Berbatov gave his verdict on the club’s potential summer signings. He told them to raid Chelsea for out-of-contract defender Antonio Rudiger.

Berbatov also spoke about influential star Verratti. “In the midfield, I would probably go for Verratti as well,” the Bulgarian said during an interview with the Daily Express.

“I like Marco Verratti. I just think he’s unbelievable on the ball with everything he’s doing.”

Verratti is one of the best midfielders in the game, but a disappointing season with PSG in the Champions League could signal the end for him in France.

Although his performances haven’t been poor, the standard shown by the rest of his teammates could tempt him into a move away from the club.

According to Fichajes, Manchester United are one of three clubs “following” Verratti, with Inter Milan and Roma also interested.

According to CaughtOffside, who cite reports in Spain, United are ‘following’ Verratti and want him to replace Paul Pogba.

The 29-year-old looks at his best with the ball at his feet, but his off the ball work doesn’t go unnoticed. In a possession-based side, he’s the perfect holding midfielder, as not only can he play progressive passes from deep, but he’s able to offer protection to the back four.

Verratti would fit perfectly in an Erik ten Hag system, due to his technical ability. The Dutchman likes to play possession football and the midfielders are extremely important in this setup.

Any deal will be tough to organise with PSG though. As shown by the Kylian Mbappe saga, club president Nasser Al-Khelaifi doesn’t like selling his prized assets. And Verratti certainly comes into that category.

The star’s contract runs until 2024. The best course of action for United may be to wait until the terms are closer to running out, giving them the option to organise a pre-contract agreement.