The Football Association (FA) is expected to investigate a social media post by Manchester United striker Edinson Cavani, according to Sky Sports.
Cavani shared an Instagram story from a fan on Sunday, using a racially offensive term.
The post has since been deleted.
Manchester United insisted the word was used in an affectionate manner and has different connotations in South America, where the player is from.
The Old Trafford club said that Cavani had been made aware such terms are perceived very differently in the UK and the 33-year-old subsequently deleted the post.
The FA did not wish to comment on Sunday night, but it is understood the governing body will launch a probe into the online post.
Facebook, the owners of Instagram, have been approached for comment.
Cavani came off the bench to score a brace in United's dramatic 3-2 comeback win against Southampton at St Mary's.
The Uruguay international has now scored three league goals for the Red Devils since joining as a free agent in the summer transfer window.
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