Report: United outcast Schweinsteiger in talks with Chicago Fire

Bastian Schweinsteiger has finally taken steps to end his Manchester United nightmare.

The former Germany international is in talks with MLS club Chicago Fire over a potential transfer, sources tell ESPN FC's Jeff Carlisle, though negotiations have not reached an advanced stage.

The Fire reportedly own Schweinsteiger's discovery rights, which give the team first crack at signing the 32-year-old midfielder.

The Daily Express spotted the World Cup winner in conversation with Fire boss Veljko Paunovic earlier this week in Manchester.

(Courtesy: @DExpress_Sport)

The pictures stoked rumours of a merciful exit from Old Trafford. Schweinsteiger spent the first months of the season in exile after Jose Mourinho decided to write off the former Bayern Munich star.

Ex-teammates and coaches have chastised the Portuguese gaffer for the way he's treated Schweinsteiger, who only recently began training with the first team.

He was also left out of the 2016-17 team photo - perhaps the final indication of his inevitable escape.

Mourinho admitted Schweinsteiger's return to senior training was a "human decision" aimed at getting him back to match fitness.

The player said previously he wouldn't leave United to play for any other European club, making MLS the most likely destination for the eight-time Bundesliga winner.