Report: Javier Hernandez given permission to leave, Bayer Leverkusen likely suitors

With the transfer deadline looming, Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has told Javier Hernandez he is surplus to requirements at Old Trafford.

Clubs have until Tuesday evening to make a move, and Bayer Leverkusen is the favourite to acquire the Mexican striker, according to the Telegraph.

Hernandez has previously been linked with West Ham United, among others.

If Leverkusen is able to purchase Hernandez, the club will acquire a striker of great pedigree. In addition to his impressive tally of medals, he boasts a superior goals-per-minute ratio to the likes of Alan Shearer, Luis Suarez, and Robin van Persie in the Premier League.

Manager Roger Schmidt will also be aware of the strong strike partnership that could be forged between Hernandez and new signing Admir Mehmedi.

Despite Van Gaal's insistence that United doesn't need another striker - that Wayne Rooney, makeshift forward Marouane Fellaini, and teenager James Wilson will suffice - there are rumours that another bid for Southampton's speedy winger-cum-striker Sadio Mane will be lodged.

Mane started in Southampton's game against Norwich City on Sunday, and the club has stressed that the 23-year-old is not for sale.