Manchester United have reportedly ramped up their interest in Philippe Coutinho by opening talks with the Barcelona star's agent.

The Red Devils were first linked with a shock move for the ex-Liverpool ace earlier this week, just a year on from his switch to Camp Nou.

Coutinho's move to Catalonia has not quite gone to plan, with the Brazil international losing his place in the forward line to Ousmane Dembele.

Barca are said to be looking to recoup some of the £142m splashed out to sign Coutinho last year and will conduct business with United if they have the funds to push through a deal.

Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo reports that United have already been in touch with the player's agent to sound him out over a possible move this month, with the aim of adding another creative talent to their first team.

Former Inter Milan and Liverpool star Coutinho has started half of Barcelona's 18 La Liga matches this term.