Manchester United have reportedly decided to wait as long as possible before making an approach for Arsenal midfielder Mesut Ozil.

Since the start of the season, United have been one of a number of clubs linked with Ozil, whose contract at the Emirates Stadium expires in the summer.

According to The Telegraph, United boss Jose Mourinho is a big admirer of the German international and is keen to add him to the first-team squad at Old Trafford, but the Portuguese would prefer to wait until the playmaker is available on a free.

However, Mourinho's hand may be forced should the likes of Barcelona, Inter Milan, Fenerbahce or Galatasaray move at the start of 2018, despite Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger now insisting that Ozil will not leave midway through the campaign.

Ozil endured a disappointing start to the season, but the 29-year-old has now contributed two goals and five assists in the Premier League.