Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho has identified Napoli defender Kalidou Koulibaly as the man to fix his leaky defence in January.
The under-pressure United boss wants to sign the Senegal international in the New Year, according to the Mirror, but is willing to wait until the end of season if necessary.
The 27-year-old would become the world's most expensive defender if he moves to Old Trafford, with Napoli valuing him at £89million.
The current world-record fee for a defender is the £75m that Liverpool paid Southampton for Virgil van Dijk.
Jurgen Klopp's side have also been linked with a move for Koulibaly in the past and Mauirizio Sarri, who managed the player during his time at Napoli, is also reportedly keen on the defender.
But Mourinho's side are now the favourites to sign the Serie A defender and he could help a United defence that has shipped 21 goals in their first 13 league games.
The Red Devils have also scouted Fiorentina defender Nikola Milenkovic, who is valued significantly less at £50m.
The Serbian defender is a friend of Nemanja Matic, which could be the key to negotiations.
United drew 0-0 to Crystal Palace on Saturday and are now 14 points off leaders and bitter rivals Manchester City.
