Manchester United have seemingly been dealt a blow in their attempts to sign Juventus defender Alex Sandro.

United have been frequently linked with a move for Sandro - who came close to joining Chelsea last summer before eventually remaining in Turin - and reports have suggested that Jose Mourinho sees the Brazilian as his long-term solution at left-back.

However, Juventus CEO Giuseppe Marotta has indicated that the club are preparing to open discussions over a new contract for the 27-year-old.

Marotta is quoted by the Manchester Evening News as saying: "We will meet next week with his representative and I think there's a desire to extend the contract."

Sandro - who has made 113 appearances for Juve since 2015 - currently has two years remaining on his existing deal.