Everton boss Ronald Koeman wants to reunite with Jose Fonte but Manchester United are also interested

EVERTON boss Ronald Koeman has launched a £9million bid for defender Jose Fonte but may face stiff competition from Jose Mourinho's Manchester United.

Koeman wants to strengthen his defence ahead of the upcoming season and eyes the Portugal international as the ideal man to improve his back four.

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However they may face a stumbling block with Mourinho's Manchester United looking to add experience in central defence.

Mourinho's first choice is Juventus' Leonardo Bonucci but with the Italian side reluctant to lose the 29-year-old, he could turn his attentions to the Southampton man.

Fonte, who was part of the Portugal side that were crowned Euro 2016 champions, has a contract until 2018 but it is believed that the Saints may be willing to cash in if the offer is right.

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Koeman knows Fonte well during his time at Southampton as the 32-year-old enjoyed a fine season at Saint Mary's.

The Dutch chief has yet to make a major summer signing and has been left frustrated in the transfer market so far.

Stoke's Marko Arnautovic and Swansea's Gylfi Sigurdsson have both rejected the chance to join Goodison Park.

But Koeman's priority remains improving a defence that conceded 55 league goals last season and ultimately cost Roberto Martinez his job.