Manchester United’s luck comes in as Everton face stiff competition to sign Memphis Depay

Manchester United's hopes of recouping the bulk of their outlay for Memphis Depay have increased after AS Roma joined Everton in the race to sign the out of favour winger.

Everton had appeared to have the field to themselves with Depay almost certain to depart Old Trafford next month but Roma's emergence has raised United's hopes that there could be an auction for the Holland international.

United paid £28 million for Depay just 18 months ago but his first team opportunities have become increasingly limited, prompting Jose Mourinho to inform him that he can leave during the January transfer window if a suitable offer is received. 

Everton, who remain favourites to sign Depay due to his preference to join another Premier League club, are reluctant to match what United paid for the 22-year-old but Roma's interest will put pressure on the Merseyside club to increase their valuation of one of Ronald Koeman's prime targets.

With Morgan Schneiderlin on the verge of moving to Goodison Park, Everton remain confident that the channels of communication that have opened with United during the course of negotiations for that proposed deal will give them an advantage in the pursuit of Depay. 

Everton's other priorities for January are to reinforce the centre back, centre forward and goalkeeping positions as Koeman looks to add greater quality to the spine of his side.