Morgan Schneiderlin to Manchester United: Bastian Schweinsteiger appears to be first choice

Louis van Gaal seeking successor to Michael Carrick

Morgan Schneiderlin (GETTY IMAGES)

Manchester United's preferred option as they seek Michael Carrick's long-term replacement is Bastian Schweinsteiger rather than Morgan Schneiderlin.

The latter has been strongly linked with a move to Old Trafford in recent days, with Manchester United left-back Luke Shaw even dropping a hint on Twitter about the Frenchman's possible £25m arrival from Southampton.

However, The Independent understands that Louis van Gaal's preferred option is Schweinsteiger.

The German has just a year remaining on his Bayern Munich contract and has been tipped to make a move to Old Trafford. That Van Gaal managed the 30-year-old during his spell as manager of Bayern Munich could be key. Schweinsteiger also represents a much cheaper option, with 12 months left on his contract meaning he could be signed for around £7m.

Bastian Schweinsteiger could be arriving at Old Trafford this summer (Getty Images)

However, should the move for Schweinsteiger fall through, United are expected to turn to Schneiderlin.

It's thought that there could be developments next week.