Manchester United are plotting a shock move for Raheem Sterling, if Manchester City fail in the appeal against a two-year ban from the Champions League, the UK Independent reports.

UEFA imposed the punishment on City in February, after finding the Etihad club guilty of breaching Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations.

However, City will begin their appeal at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) from Monday, June 8.

City risk losing some of their big players, if they lose their appeal and their suspension is upheld.

Sterling is one of such players that could dump the Premier League champions and has already been linked with a move to Real Madrid.

While a transfer appears unlikely, United are also monitoring the situation and would make a move for the 25-year-old if he becomes available.