Man Utd launch shock bid for Real Madrid ace Figo

Manchester United have launched a shock bid for Real Madrid ace Luis Figo.

The Sun says United have tabled a £5 million offer for the 31 year-old Portugal international winger.

United boss Sir Alex Ferguson sent Old Trafford officials to Spain yesterday to open talks with Figo, who cost Real £37m from Barcelona in 2000.

Figo has one year left on his Madrid contract but has already admitted he plans to leave on a free transfer next summer, with Real reluctant to offer a new deal.