It was even believed that the London club, managed by former England manager Glenn Hoddle, were preparing a £750K swoop for the talented defender - who is rated as one of the best prospects in the football league.
Derby County have sent scouts to recent reserve matches to see the player, whilst Villa are also said to be monitoring his progress.
It is clear that the club would like to retain his purposes, but with three Premiership club's chasing after him the amount of money on offer may be too much to turn down - especially in the current financial climate, and with United reportedly upto £2million in debt.