Manchester United have reportedly “explored” the possibility of signing Lille winger Nicolas Pepe ahead of a potential January swoop.

United manager Jose Mourinho is understood to be interested in strengthening his attacking department in the wide areas, despite the likes of Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford already struggling at the field.

According to the French outlet Telefoot, the Portuguese boss has earmarked Pepe as a possible addition and has sent scouts to watch the Ivory Coast international in action.

The 23-year-old attacker was strongly linked with a move to the likes of Sevilla and Southampton during the summer, and the Saints are understood to have seen a £12.5m bid turned down by Les Dogues.

Meanwhile, Arsenal are also thought to be interested in the striker, and Manchester United have now joined the list of interested suitors.

Pepe has netted 18 goals in 43 appearances for Lille.