Manchester United are ‘in the driving seat’ for Thomas Lemar, according to journalist Ian McGarry.

As far as we remember, Manchester United haven’t been linked with Thomas Lemar all that much this summer. In fact, Arsenal have almost exclusively been linked with him.

Yet, according to former Fleet Street journalist, Ian McGarry, United are the ones in pole position to sign the winger.

“I’d say Manchester United are in the driving seat right now,” he said, as reported by The Daily Star.

“I think Wenger was depending on the whole French connection at Arsenal, bringing in a player who obviously has played for the (French) national team with Giroud, Lacazette, Koscielny and others.

“But they haven’t got the deal over the line yet and they’ve been trying for six weeks.

“And if Manchester United did come in with the right offer and the right contract and the charm and charisma of Jose Mourinho telling a player how he’ll play, where he’ll play as he does.”

McGarry’s comments certainly sound more like speculation than fact.

He’s presented an entirely hypothetical situation where, if United did go in for Lemar, they would be favourites to sign him.

Jose Mourinho’s “charm” might sway the player, but it doesn’t mean much without convincing Monaco to sell.

Convincing the player to join hasn’t been the problem for Arsenal. The problem has been agreeing a fee with Monaco, who are refusing to sell for anything less than a huge price.

Arsenal have been trying for a long time and have seemingly been hitting their heads against a brink wall for little reward.

Maybe United, always more willing to spend big money, would have better luck wit their carefree approach to fees – that is, if they’re even in for the player to begin with.