United set to step up pursuit of Bilbao midfield star Martinez with January bid

Manchester United are back on the trail of Spain Under 21 midfielder Javi Martinez.

The club are considering an £18m bid in January for the 6ft 3in Athletic Bilbao player who is liked by scout Martin Ferguson.

Meanwhile, Wycombe Wanderers have signed Reading striker Nicholas Bignall, 21, on a one-month loan and Preston striker Jamie Proctor, 19, could be out for up to six weeks with a hernia.

Highly rated: Javi Martinez is wanted by Manchester United