Manchester United keeping tabs on Riyad Mahrez after scouts watch Algerian shine in Leicester win over West Brom

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Manchester United are monitoring Leicester City's in-form winger Riyad Mahrez.

The Algeria international has been on United's radar since last season but his continued improvement has prompted them to take a closer look.

United had scouts at Saturday's game between Leicester and West Brom though that was partly routine as United host Albion at the weekend.

Manchester United have been monitoring Leicester City's in-form winger Riyad Mahrez since last season

United boss Louis van Gaal is aware of his side's need for greater penetration after three straight stalemates

Frustrated Louis van Gaal wants to add pace and goals to his lacklustre attack.

An ambitious proposal to sign Neymar from Barcelona was deemed unrealistic last summer while United also failed in an attempt to sign Sadio Mane from Southampton.

Mane remains an option for January, however, Mahrez, who has scored eight goals this season, is also on their list.

Reports in France say United have made initial contacts with the representatives of Mahrez but they are not alone as Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona have also made note of his performances.

Mahrez was born in Sarcelles, France and was signed by Nigel Pearson for Leicester from Le Havre in January 2014. 

Off the field, United’s kit suppliers Adidas want to add Wayne Rooney to their superstar stable — more than a decade after turning down the striker. The club’s captain is signed to rivals Nike.

Sportsmail can reveal Adidas declined to sign Rooney when he was with former club Everton.

The Algerian winger scores his second goal against West Brom to give his side the lead at The Hawthorns

Leicester manager Claudio Ranieri has guided his side to third in the Premier League with the help of Mahrez