Manchester United are planning to “step up” their attempts to sign Brighton & Hove Albion forward Katie Robinson, according to Manchester World.

The 20-year-old is also said to be a target for rivals Manchester City but it looks as if Marc Skinner’s side are the ones who will make a formal offer for the player.

Robinson has been scouted for a number of months, with her displays for Brighton being crucial in helping the Seagulls survive the drop, racking up four goals and providing six assists in 22 league appearances.

For that reason, the south coast club won’t let one of their key players leave without a fight, with Manchester World reporting that a “significant fee” will be required to secure the striker’s services.

United are keen to strengthen their squad, especially following the news that Alessia Russo will leave on a free transfer at the end of June. It would probably put too much pressure on Robinson to say she could be a replacement but she does possess the ability to fill the shoes of her England teammate.

Robinson will be on the plane heading Down Under

The forward’s impressive form for Brighton has certainly attracted the attention of Lionesses head coach Sarina Wiegman. After first being called up for the fixtures against Japan and Norway in November last year, she was subsequently included in the squad for the Arnold Clark Cup a few months later, picking up 4 caps in total.

Considering she finished the season so strongly at club level, Robinson was deservedly named in the final 23 for the World Cup next month. United would probably prefer to wrap up a deal to sign her before she flies out to Australia and New Zealand.

England play their final warm-up game at the Stadium: MK against Portugal on July 1st, prior to the team travelling Down Under for their first group game versus Haiti on July 22nd.