Transfer Rumors: Mancester United's Eric Bailly To Arsenal Or Tottenham?

After a poor start to the 2018-19 Premier League season, Manchester United could be interested in making moves ahead of the winter transfer window. One player that may be on his way out of Old Trafford is Eric Bailly.

There had initially been high hopes for the 24-year-old center back, who joined United from Villarreal in June 2016 on a four-year deal and for a reported fee of £30 million. It was Jose Mourinho's first signing as manager and signs seemed to point that he was a solid fit with the club.

But Bailly seems to have recently fallen out of favor with Mourinho. The Ivory Coast star has not seen the pitch since Oct. 6 when United faced Newcastle at Old Trafford. Bailly started the match but was pulled for midfielder Juan Mata after about 20 minutes, leading to reports of bad blood between he and Mourinho.

"I don’t see a way back for Eric," said former United center back Rio Ferdinand at halftime of the match. "The manager said in the last game he didn’t have players that could play the ball out from the back and he’s been made the fall guy here."

British tabloids have linked Bailly to an exit for much of the season. In September, the Mirror reported that both Arsenal and Tottenham are interested in Bailly. Weeks later, the Express, Daily Record and Daily Star echoed the report that Bailly could be headed to north London.

The Express has also noted that A.C. Milan may also target Bailly.

Arsenal, who have allowed 15 goals in 12 Premier League matches, recently featured Rob Holding and Shkodran Mustafi in central defense in a draw with Wolverhampton. Spurs used Toby Alderweireld and Juan Foyth in central defense in a win over Crystal Palace.

Both Tottenham (27 points) and Arsenal (24 points) are in contention for a Champions League berth. United, meanwhile, are tied for sixth with Watford and Bournemouth with 20 points.