Report: Manchester United line up Ricardo Carvalho

Manchester United are reportedly preparing to swoop for Monaco defender Ricardo Carvalho.

The veteran centre-back is attracting the attention of Louis van Gaal as the Dutchman looks to bolster his defensive ranks ahead of the September 1 transfer deadline, according to Tuttomercatoweb.

Van Gaal is said to view the 36-year-old former Chelsea defender as the ideal man to provide cover to the likes of Jonny Evans and Marcos Rojo.

The Portuguese is understood to be keen to move and earn his coaching badges while acting as a squad player at Old Trafford.

Meanwhile, United are reportedly close to signing Ajax defender Daley Blind.