Man Utd injury boost as Eric Bailly targets early return after responding well to treatment

MANCHESTER UNITED star Eric Bailly is hopeful of making an early return from injury, according to reports.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer confirmed in July that the defender had been ruled out "four or five months" after undergoing knee injury.

The United manager predicted that the 25-year-old would not be playing again until "around Christmas time".

But according to , he is targeting an early comeback as his recovery is ahead of schedule.

It is reported that he is planning to return to training with the Red Devils in around two months time.

And that he is on track to make his comeback with the first-team after the November international break.

He has been stuck on the sidelines since he damaged ligaments in his right knee during a pre-season win over Tottenham.

It is Bailly's second serious injury in the space of a year after an ankle problem kept him out of action for four months.

But the club are set to sit down with the 34-cap Ivory Coast international to discuss extending his deal.

If new terms are not agreed, Bailly will be able to leave on a free transfer when his contract expires next summer.

Juventus are allegedly eyeing an incredible five-man swoop for Bailly, David De Gea, Nemanja Matic and Tottenham duo Christian Eriksen and Toby Alderweireld.