Several reports are suggesting that Louis van Gaal had Manchester United scouts in Germany this week to watch Zenit St Petersburg centre back, Ezequiel Garay. Although Zenit lost, Garay has been a long time target for Manchester United and despite the Argentina international moving to Russia from Benfica only 6 months ago, it is understood United remain interested and have earmarked Garay as the man to bolster their fragile defence.

Understandably Manchester United will be seeking January reinforcements given how their defence has performed so far this season and so perhaps it is little surprise that a player of Garay’s calibre may feature on this list. The 28-year-old was central to Benfica’s recent success and his performances for Argentina in Brazil en route to the World Cup Final highlighted his strengths.

What is a little surprising is that Manchester United have left his transfer so long. An interest in Garay has been reported since back when Sir Alex Ferguson was in charge and it remained throughout David Moyes’ short spell in charge.

After three years in Portugal with Benfica, Garay’s contract was running down and despite numerous links to clubs around Europe, the former Real Madrid player, moved to Zenit St Petersburg for £12 million.

Given that the 28-year-old only signed that deal in the summer, United can be expected to pay significantly more than this.

Garay is a commanding centre back who marshalled Argentina’s backline magnificently during the World Cup, strong in the air but equally comfortable with the ball at his feet, making him a perfect candidate for one of van Gaal’s defences.

If the money is not a problem for Manchester United then Garay would probably need little persuading. Marcos Rojo and Ángel di María have already joined the new regime at Old Trafford and the opportunity to recapture United’s place at the top of the table and become a more reliable replacement for the likes of Rio Ferdinand or Nemanja Vidic would be too good to turn down.