Manchester United had very fixed target list for the summer transfer window. Signing Eric Dier as a long-term replacement for Michael Carrick in the defensive midfield position was on top of that list.

But Tottenham Hotspur view the England international as a key member of their squad, although he is not a guaranteed starter. Victor Wanyama takes precedence in the pecking order. However, Dier’s versatility (he can play both in defence and midfield) is a virtue.

It is an open secret that Dier craves for more starting action and United may provide just that. Latest reports from The Guardian indicate that the player could be open to the prospect of a transfer this summer. No wonder then that the Red Devils are trying to push for the transfer.

However, the biggest stumbling block for the Old Trafford based club is the reluctance of Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy.

Ed Woodward, the United executive vice-chairman, seems to have spoken with Levy at the start of the close season and registered their interest in Dier. It is understood Woodward made a bid for the Englishman, on the instructions of José Mourinho. But Levy knocked it back, says The Guardian.

Dier played in Tottenham’s defence for most of the last season owing to Wanyama’s resurgence in his favoured defensive midfield position. Mourinho likes Dier and looks eager to make him his next signing. Levy’s reluctance though, is understandable. Dier ticks many boxes for Spurs – can play in defence, can play in midfield and is a close friend of key player Dele Alli.

United are ready to increase their initial offer and make a second bid of £50million for Dier. Personally too, the offer on the table would more than double the current weekly wages for the player – £70,000/week now. Interestingly, that would take his salary beyond Tottenham’s ceiling of £100,000 per week.

Tottenham are prepared to sell one of their first XI players – Kyle Walker, who is a target for Manchester City. In that scenario, Levy may not be willing to let Dier go. But then, what about the lure of Old Trafford and higher wages?

This is going to be an interesting saga that may run until the end of transfer window!