Manchester United have reportedly been handed a boost in their hopes of signing Inter Milan striker Mauro Icardi after Real Madrid failed to go in for the player during the January transfer window.

The 24-year-old's form in recent seasons has seen him linked with some of Europe's top clubs, and he has been similarly prolific so far this term with 18 goals in just 22 Serie A appearances.

Icardi is understood to be open to the idea of leaving San Siro and was hopeful of joining Real Madrid in January, only for Los Blancos president Florentino Perez to decide against a move following discussions with Zinedine Zidane.

Spanish outlet Don Balon reports that Icardi had been assured that a bid would be made and now feels let down by the European champions having readied himself to leave Italy.

Manchester United have also been linked with the Inter skipper in the past and could now be frontrunners for his signature due to Madrid seemingly burning their bridges with the player.

Icardi joined Inter in 2013 and has since scored 96 goals in 170 appearances for the club.