Manchester United have reportedly stolen a march on Barcelona and Manchester City in the race to sign Palmeiras forward Gabriel Veron.

The 18-year-old has earned links with a move to a host of European heavyweights after scoring eight goals and setting up three more in 33 games for the Brazilian club.

Palmeiras are thought to be prepared to cash in on the Brazil Under-17s international this month if a €20m (£17.63m) offer is tabled.

Spanish outlet Sport suggests that United are now the favourites to complete a move for Veron, having worked hard behind the scenes to ensure that he chooses them over Barca and bitter rivals City.

United, who beat Fulham 2-1 on Wednesday night to move back into top spot in the Premier League, are also said to be targeting a loan move for Inter Milan playmaker Christian Eriksen.