Report: Abramovich gives Matic approval for Manchester United move

Nemanja Matic's move from Chelsea to Manchester United is one step closer to fruition.

Reports that surfaced late Friday suggest that Blues owner Roman Abramovich has given the Serbian international permission to seek a £50-million move.

Matic's Chelsea future was thrown into doubt with the summer signing of Tiemoue Bakayoko, and now the 28-year-old nears a high-profile move to Old Trafford with Abramovich's blessings, according to the Telegraph's Matt law and John Percy.

United's reported £50-million bid marks a second advance from the Lancashire lot after an initial offer of £35 million was rejected.

It's a move that makes plenty of sense for both Premier League giants.

Bakayoko's arrival and certain pairing with Les Bleus' mate N'Golo Kante means Matic would fight for first-team minutes with Cesc Fabregas, while United is desperately searching for a central midfielder to replace aging skipper Michael Carrick.

During his second spell with the Premier League holder, 32-time capped international Matic has paired ball-stopping skills with an eye for a pass to great success. Last season, his third with the club since a return from Benfica, Matic appeared in 35 of Chelsea's 38 league clashes, bagging one goal to go with seven assists for the title winner.