James Rodriguez is wanted by Manchester United. (Getty Images)

Manchester United have held new talks with Real Madrid over a deal for James Rodriguez, according to reports.

Earlier this week, United pulled out of negotiations with the Spanish champions to sign Alvaro Morata as they refused to lower the striker’s €90 million (£79m) asking price.

But The Independent claims that United have now ‘stepped up’ talks with Madrid in an attempt to strike a deal for Rodriguez.

It’s reported that Jose Mourinho views the Colombia international as the successor to Wayne Rooney, who is close to joining Everton, and believes there is a place in United’s attack for the out-of-favour Madrid midfielder.

United are in for Rodriguez after pulling out of the deal to sign Morata. (Getty Images)

The Spanish champions have priced the 25-year-old at €70m (£62m) but United are looking to pay far lower than that figure for a player who started only 18 games last season.

Madrid are in pole position to sign Dani Ceballos from Real Betis, which is likely to pave the way for Rodriguez’s exit this summer.

Reports in Spain claim that Chelsea will submit an offer to Madrid for Rodriguez but the Colombian is also wanted by Paris Saint-Germain.

United, meanwhile, are closing in on a deal for Romelu Lukaku after agreeing a £75m deal with Everton on Thursday.

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