Sadio Mane to Manchester United: Southampton asking '£40m' for impressive forward

Mane has had an excellent season for Southampton

Manchester United will have to 'pay double' what they offered Southampton for Sadio Mane in the summer if they want to bring the Senagalese to Old Trafford, according to reports.

Mane, 23, was a shock transfer target for Louis van Gaal during the summer with the club then willing to pay around £20million for his services.

But after a superb start to the season, Mane's price tag has doubled, according to the Daily Telegraph.

Mane has four goals and four assists in all competitions this season and was especially impressive when the Saints beat Chelsea at Stamford Bridge earlier this month.

The prospect of selling Mane was raised at a fans forum this week where manager Ronald Koeman and executive director Les Reed where in attendance.

Five hundred Southampton fans were at the meeting and when the issue of Mane was raised, one fan said that United should "get stuffed" unless they pay £50m.

Reed responded by joking, "only £50m?".