Ings United link wide of the mark

National media sources have suggested United had emerged as favourites to sign the nine-goal top-scorer, whose contract expires in the summer.

But while United are believed to hold an interest in the 22-year-old, who excelled in the Clarets’ 3-1 defeat at Old Trafford in February - prompting the Red Devils to scout him at Anfield three weeks later - such reports are jumping the gun.

Liverpool have already shown their hand, and were prepared to exploit a Premier League loophole to secure his signature for a summer

transfer, having been denied by Premier League rules from trying to sign the England Under 21 man in January, and loan him back until the end of the season.

Ings is also believed to be interesting Tottenham and Manchester City, while he flew out for talks with Real Sociedad in February.

The ideal scenario for Burnley - barring an unexpected desire to stay at Turf Moor - would be for him to move to a domestic club, rather than abroad, due to the disparity in compensation available.