Hugo Lloris is Manchester United's No.1 target this summer if they lose David De Gea.
United are becoming increasingly resigned to keeper De Gea opting for a move to Real Madrid this summer, with the Spaniard - who is out of contract in a year's time - having so far failed to sign an extension.
That predicament has forced the Red Devils to look into a replacement for £30million-rated De Gea, with Tottenham and France No.1 Lloris having emerged as manager Louis van Gaal's preferred choice.
But United would face a battle for his signature from Paris Saint-Germain, who also have the 28-year-old in their sights.
Lloris effectively signalled his intention to leave Spurs by admitting he wants to play Champions League football next season - something Maurico Pochettino's sixth-placed side, who are seven points behind fourth-placed United with four games to go, are unlikely to be able to offer.
The Frenchman has been in impressive form this season, but feels he is at a stage in his career where he needs to be playing at the highest level in Europe - a stage he knows from his days with former club Lyon, rather than the Europa League he's played in for his three years in England.
Although United want De Gea to stay, have tabled a £150,000 a week offer and have not yet given up on persuading the 24-year-old to commit his immediate future to them, they accept the matter is out of their control.
Against that backdrop, they have begun looking at keepers who could take over from De Gea should their worst fears be confirmed and he states his desire to leave Old Trafford after four years.
Although United already have former Barcelona No1 Victor Valdes, signed on an 18-month deal in January, on their books it is understood he would not be promoted to first choice if De Gea leaves.
The Old Trafford giants consider 65-cap Lloris the outstanding alternative to De Gea, with three years' experience in the Premier League already under his belt ad the character to be their first-choice.
Tottenham insist they have no plans to let the former Lyon star go this summer, but are similarly likely to be powerless to prevent his exit if he indicates a desire to leave and they receive a big-money offer.