Manchester United eye defensive trio

The Portuguese is keen to have a combative, physical centre-back in his ranks, with none of his current options fitting that billing.

According to the 'Daily Mail', the list of potential targets has been narrowed down to Maguire, Alderweireld and Bonucci, but that a sale will first be needed.

United have already spent significantly this summer to bring in Fred and Diogo Dalot from Shakhtar Donetsk and Porto respectively and face another significant outlay to sign a defender.

Marcos Rojo is the most likely to make way, whilst victor Lindelof is also thought to be attracting interest from elsewhere.

Maguire is thought to be of serious interest to United after his stunning World Cup campaign, but a £65m price tag could prove prohibitive. Leicester are set to do all they can to keep the former Sheffield United and Hull man, including offering him a bumper new deal.

Alderweireld is someone who United have kept a close eye on in the past and who could be available for the right price this summer, with his contract due to expire at the end of the season. However, the aforementioned source claims that there has been no contact between the two clubs since May.

Finally, Bonucci has also been considered, but as the oldest of the three he represents the least financially viable option, with the 31-year-old possession next to no resale value.