Manchester United surprise favourites to sign Chelsea and England defender Gary Cahill

Manchester United have reportedly emerged as surprise frontrunners to sign England international defender Gary Cahill, according to the Daily Star.

The Premier League side, who have signed defender Diogo Dalot (FC Porto), midfielder Fred (Shakhtar Donetsk) and goalkeeper Lee Grant (Stoke City) so far this transfer window, have been linked with a surprise swoop for the Chelsea centre-back this summer.

The 32-year-old, who has 61 international caps for the Three Lions, played 43 times in all competitions for The Blues last season, as they defeated United in the 2018 FA Cup final at Wembley Stadium.

Cahill, who arrived at Stamford Bridge back in January 2012 following his reported £7m move from Bolton wanderers, has scored 25 goals in 282 games overall for the club, winning two Premier League titles, two FA Cups, the UEFA Champions League, the UEFA Europa League and the League Cup.

England’s Gary Cahill in action with against Belgium at the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

However, the former Aston Villa defender is understood to be considering leaving the London outfit this summer, as Chelsea close in on a deal to sign fellow centre-back Daniele Rugani from Serie A champions Juventus.

Should he leave Stamford Bridge, the report claims United are the favourites to land the England international, who is valued at £13.5m.