Jose Mourinho has reportedly made Southampton defender Virgil van Dijk his number one defensive target, as the Manchester United manager aims to bolster his squad in the January transfer window.
Mourinho is keen to land the Saints centre-half after monitoring the Dutchman through a series of highly impressive displays this season. Mourinho believes the former Celtic man is the ideal candidate to add essential qualities -such as leadership and courage -that he feels are sadly lacking in the current United line-up.
According to The Mirror, Mourinho has been disappointed with his side's defensive displays, particularly in recent weeks and feels remedial action is paramount to United's hopes for this season.
Claude Puel: "Virgil van Dijk has all of the qualities to become one of the best defenders in the world." pic.twitter.com/VwkliAMqJG
At £30m, Van Dijk is an expensive proposition but certainly still an attractive one, especially considering that he has been instrumental in helping Southampton ship only 10 goals so far this season.
As per the report, insiders at Old Trafford have revealed that senior United defenders like Chris Smalling have been criticised by Mourinho as the Portuguese coach appears to be losing patience with his under-performing stars.
Mourinho was reportedly furious with how United were ruthlessly dismantled by Chelsea at Stamford Bridge two weeks ago, while they also looked fragile in the 2-1 Europa League defeat to Fenerbahce on Thursday night.
What a night for @SouthamptonFC , the fans and everybody who has been involved. You guys deserved it!
Enjoy and see you sunday! � #saintsfc pic.twitter.com/cULHEHK0j5
Atletico Madrid captain Diego Godin is said to be another major target for Mourinho, but the belief is that it would be particularly troublesome trying to prise the Uruguayan away from the Vicente Calderon.
United had also been linked with Van Dijk's defensive partner at the St Mary's, Jose Fonte but, on the cusp of turning 33, he does not signify a long-term solution to United's woes.
Van Dijk, on the other hand, is 25 and appears to be playing some of the best football of his career.