Report: Manchester United interested in Athletic Bilbao's Oscar de Marcos

Manchester United are reportedly interested in signing Athletic Bilbao midfielder Oscar de Marcos and could make a bid in January.

According to The Mirror, manager Sir Alex Ferguson sent his brother Martin to watch the 23-year-old play for Bilbao against Barcelona in La Liga on Saturday.

Ferguson is keen to reinforce his squad by adding young players and De Marcos's impressive performances against United in the Europa League last season have persuaded him to keep a close eye on him.

Bilbao, who reached the Europa League and Copa del Rey finals last season, are struggling this term, as they are just three points above the relegation zone in La Liga.

De Marcos joined Bilbao from Alaves in 2009.