Zidane move to Manchester could prompt Thiago switch

While at Bayern Munich, Pep Guardiola once famously said he wanted "Thiago Alcantara or nothing", and on current form it is easy to see why. 

It was reported earlier in the week that Zidane had already drawn up a list of targets should he take over from Mourinho, and Thiago is sure to figure high.

However, there would be stiff competition from Guardiola at Manchester City, as well as Real Madrid and former club Barcelona. In addition, Bayern do not want or need to sell the Spain international. 

Six years ago, Manchester United were close to signing Thiago only for Guardiola to steal him away at the last minute and take him to Germany. This time round, with Zidane rather than David Moyes in the dugout, the prospective move could be a lot more tempting. 

Despite mixed fortunes at Bayern - injuries have led to inconsistent form - some areas of the press have been waxing lyrical about him recently. 

"Thiago blends the abilities of Spanish-Brazilian footballer with that of a German," said the Sueddeutsche Zeitung last month. "The elegant, chipped pass belongs to his repertoire as much as the perfect slide tackle."

Unfortunately for Manchester United fans, with Zidane recently pictured out shopping with his wife as he continues his break from football, this could be a long way from reality.