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Chelsea, Lyon eye summer move for Man United's Alessia Russo - sources

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Zelem: No holding Manchester United back (0:37)

Manchester United captain Katie Zelem feels there's no reason why they can't win the league title this season. (0:37)

Manchester United and Arsenal are set to face competition from Chelsea and European champions Lyon for the signature of England forward Alessia Russo this summer, sources have told ESPN.

Russo was the subject of a world record £450,000 bid from Arsenal during the January transfer window -- an offer which was rejected by United, despite the prospect of the 24-year-old leaving the club as a free agent when her contract expires at the end of this season.

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United coach Marc Skinner has made it clear that the WSL leaders are determined to retain Russo's services by handing her a new contract before the Euro 2022 winner takes part in the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup in Australia and New Zealand in July.

Arsenal are also committed to a renewed move for Russo, but Chelsea and Lyon both displayed an interest in the former North Carolina Tar Heels player in January and are prepared to rival Arsenal and United for her services this summer.

Russo began her senior career in Chelsea's development squad and made one appearance for the WSL champions before moving to Brighton & Hove Albion in 2017 and having allowed Bethany England leave for Tottenham in January, Russo has emerged as potential replacement should she opt to end her time at United.

United are aware that Lyon, the eight-time Champions League winners, are also ready to enter the race to sign Russo as a free agent this summer.

Russo has scored five goals in 11 league games for United this season as the club attempt to win the WSL for the first time.