Man Utd’s list of defensive targets grows as Milenkovic and Manolas eyed by Mourinho
It's no secret the Portuguese boss is desperate to increase his defensive options in January
MANCHESTER UNITED'S list of defensive targets to buy in January is getting longer by the day.
It's no secret that boss Jose Mourinho is desperate to improve the back line at Old Trafford.
And of course, with people coming in, there should be a few heading in the other direction.
While Chris Smalling is close to sealing a contract extension, the future looks a lot bleaker for Eric Bailly and Marcus Rojo.
Bailly has failed to convince Mourinho that he can be the rock he so desires, while Rojo has never really looked like a first-team regular.
Even Phil Jones will be sweating on his future as he continues to act as back-up.
Here, SunSport looks at the top five defenders on Mourinho's New Year wishlist.
Nikola Milenkovic - Fiorentina
Red Devils boss Mourinho has made the Serbian defender a top target after keeping a close eye during the international break.
Milenkovic has only been at Fiorentina for just over a year after signing from Partizan for £4.5m in May.
Expected cost - £50m
Kostas Manolas - Roma
The highly-rated Greece international has a bargain £32million release clause in his contract.
Manolas, 27, has established himself as an integral part of the Stadio Olimpico side's success since arriving from Olympiacos in 2014.
Expected cost - £31m
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Declan Rice - West Ham
The West Ham man, who can play centre-half or defensive midfield, currently pockets around £3,000-a-week, but his deal expires in 2020.
He has been hailed as the best young player at the club thanks to his recent form which has led to United declaring an interest.
Expected cost - £20m-£25m
Kalidou Koulibaly - Napoli
The ace, 27, joined Napoli from Genk in 2014 and has made 180 appearances for the Italian giants.
And he has caught the eye of Mourinho for his impressive performances both domestically and in the Champions League.
Expected cost - £77m
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Toby Alderweireld - Tottenham
The Spurs defender, 29, was targeted by United in the summer transfer window but the Red Devils missed out on landing him.
Alderweireld's current deal at Tottenham expires at the end of the season and Manchester United may decide to go in again for the ace.
Expected cost - £25m
