Man Utd and Newcastle 'leading the race' to sign Sadio Mane from Bayern Munich

Liverpool legend Sadio Mane has been linked with a shock move to Manchester United this summer.

There are few things that make supporters' blood boil more than former players signing for a rival club, and Mane could do exactly that - with United reportedly plotting a move for the Senegal international.

Mane, 31, is rightfully viewed as a legend at Liverpool, having scored 120 goals in 269 games for the Merseyside club after joining from Southampton in 2016.

During his time at Anfield, he won the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup and Carabao Cup - as well as a whole host of personal accolades - firmly establishing himself as a fan favourite.

However, following last summer's Champions League final defeat to Real Madrid, Mane decided to call time on his Liverpool career - opting to join German giants Bayern Munich in a deal worth up to £35m.

Mane has struggled to produce his best form since moving to Bayern, managing an underwhelming return of 12 goals and six assists across all competitions for the Bundesliga club.

An alleged bust-up with teammate Leroy Sane after Bayern's 3-0 Champions League defeat to Manchester City has raised further questions over his signing and the 30-year-old has been linked with a move away from the club after just one season.

Where could Mane go?

A return to the Premier League has been touted as a potential option for Mane, although Liverpool are not believed to be interested in re-signing the player.

Instead, Sky Sports Germany claim Manchester United and Newcastle United are 'leading the race' to sign Mane.

Chelsea have also been heavily linked with a move for the forward, but the lack of Champions League football at Stamford Bridge next season could rule them out.

However, there are doubts over whether Mane will seek to leave Bayern this summer, with transfer expert Fabrizio Romano claiming that player has no plans to leave the Allianz Arena.

"He has great relationship with [Thomas] Tuchel and hopes to stay and win titles next season," tweeted Romano.

Mane previously rejected the chance to play for United in 2015, choosing to stay at St Mary's for a further year before joining up with Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool.

Speaking ahead of the World Cup in Qatar, former United boss Louis van Gaal confirmed he tried to sign Mane whilst in charge at Old Trafford.

"I wanted him when I was the manager at Man United," the Dutchman recalled.

"I chased him at the time. I am a fan of Mane."