MANCHESTER UNITED are reportedly keeping tabs on Porto ace Eder Militao as Jose Mourinho bids to bring a new defender to Old Trafford.
The Brazilian international has caught the attention of the Special One after impressing in his first season in Europe following a summer switch from Sao Paulo.
Militao, 20, has featured in 13 games in all competitions for Mourinho's former employers, where he has established himself as a key player under Sergio Conceicao.
Everton were linked with a move for him in September, but United look to sneak in front of the Merseyside club.
According to the Daily Record, the Red Devils have added the youngster to a list of possible recruits ahead of the New Year.
Militao - who can also operate as a defensive midfielder - is seen a cheaper alternative to United's desired targets.
Napoli star Kalidou Koulibaly is believed to be the number one target at the Theatre of Dreams, with reports suggesting United had a £77million offer knocked back by the Serie A side.
While Ajax starlet Matthijs de Ligt remains a possibility, though it is understood they face competition from Manchester City, Barcelona and Juventus.
Mourinho is desperate to sign a defender in the winter transfer window, with his side shipping 21 goals in just 13 Premier League games as they sit seventh in the table.
Chris Smalling and Victor Lindelof have been the preferred pairing this campaign, but the Swede faces a spell on the sidelines having picked up an injury against Crystal Palace.