Newcastle are threatening Manchester United plans for Nice defender Jean-Clair Todibo.
The Mirror says United will prioritise the signing of a centre-back in January.
United are still interested in Todibo - who was also considered this past summer.
OGC Nice are said to want 40m for the France international. His former club Barcelona is entitled to 20 percent of the transfer fee.
Newcastle are also said to be interested in Todibo, but United have a clear advantage in a possible bidding war.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe is expected to buy 25 percent of Manchester United shortly. Ratcliffe also owns OGC Nice.