According to reports in The Sun on Sunday, Chelsea midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek isn't going to decide his future at Stamford Bridge until after the World Cup, and Manchester United should look to bring him to Old Trafford if he does leave.

What's the word, then?

Well, the 6ft 3in England international is returning to Stamford Bridge this summer following a successful season-long loan spell with Premier League rivals Crystal Palace, having struggled to get opportunities under Antonio Conte during the previous campaign.

The Italian's future is seemingly in doubt this summer following the Blues' miserable defence of their title that saw them finish fifth and miss out on Champions League qualification, and Loftus-Cheek may only choose to remain in west London if the 48-year-old leaves.

Meanwhile, Red Devils boss Jose Mourinho, who should hijack Man City's bid to sign £13.5m-rated dribbling king he desperately needs, has already brought Shakhtar Donetsk midfielder Fred to Old Trafford this summer as he looks to strengthen his midfield following Michael Carrick's retirement and Marouane Fellaini's likely exit, and the 22-year-old England international could be a perfect extra addition if he plans to play a three-man midfield.

How did Loftus-Cheek do in the 2017/18 campaign?

He impressed.

Despite a few injury issues, the midfielder – who played through the middle and on both flanks – made 24 Premier League appearances, scoring two goals and providing a further four assists.

His quality on the ball and in possession was particularly impressive as his silky style of play saw him intricately link up with the likes of Wilfried Zaha and Andros Townsend, while he has the engine to get up and down the pitch and the athleticism and dribbling ability to take opponents on.

Why should United sign him?

It seems clear that the Red Devils need some more players that have the ability to get the ball and bring it forward like Paul Pogba can, but hasn't done enough on a consistent basis.

If Loftus-Cheek did arrive at Old Trafford he would likely be competing with the Frenchman, Fred and Nemanja Matic for a midfield spot, and considering he wants to play regular football convincing him to come and potentially not start ahead of those three could be a huge challenge – as well as the Blues choosing to sell to a direct rival.

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