Jose Mourinho has refused to comment on speculation that Manchester United want to sign Chelsea midfielder Nemanja Matic or Tottenham Hotspur star Eric Dier.
The Red Devils have been heavily linked with a swoop to sign a defensive midfielder in the summer transfer window as Mourinho looks to prepare for life without Michael Carrick.
The new Manchester United captain signed a one-year contract extension earlier this summer but at the age of 35, Carrick is in the twilight of his Old Trafford career.
According to The Guardian, the Europa League winners have failed with three bids to sign England star Dier as Tottenham refuse to sell the versatile midfielder.
Chelsea are thought to be open to a deal to sell Matic but owner Roman Abramovich is demanding £50m for the Serbia international.
Speaking at his pre-match media conference ahead of Sunday’s International Champions Cup clash against Real Madrid in Santa Clara, Mourinho was asked about rumours linking Manchester United with Dier and Matic.
Mourinho said:
“Names is difficult for me [to discuss], but as you know, the players belong to clubs. The managers and the owners are not happy if you speak about them.”
Manchester United finished in sixth place in the Premier League table last season but won the EFL Cup and the Europa League.
The Red Devils have signed Everton striker Romelu Lukaku and Benfica defender Victor Lindelof.