Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal targets summer move for Lazio star Stefan de Vrij

Manchester United are considering a move in signing Lazio defender Stefan de Vrij in the summer, according to Tutto Mercato Web.

The 23-year-old left Feyenoord and made a switch to the Serie A last summer, after having a successful World Cup campaign with the Netherlands. He had a difficult start to his Lazio career, but has come good in recent times as he started in 27 league games this term.

Louis van Gaal is aware of De Vrij's abilities and has sent his scouts to watch him in action during the second leg of the Coppa Italia clash between Lazio and Napoli. His side went on to win the clash 1-0 as they will take on Juventus in the final.

The Dutch international has been very impressive for Lazio this season as Stefano Pioli's side suffered three defeats at home in his absence. The Serie A outfit are not interested in letting their player leave, especially after signing him last summer.

The former Barcelona and Bayern Munich manager is an admirer of his compatriot and is keen on bringing him to Old Trafford. His contract with his current employers will run down in 2018.

Despite interest from United, Lazio will resist any offer from the 20-times English champions as they are adamant in retaining De Vrij. The Italian side are looking to build another team and they believe the Dutch defender holds key to their plan for the next season.

United have the services of Chris Smalling, Phil Jones, Marcos Rojo, Jonny Evans, along with Paddy McNair and Tyler Blackett as the centre-backs in the squad. Evans has struggled this season and missed last six games due to suspension.

The Dutchman had earlier admitted that he is looking to add tall players to the squad in the summer.

"When you see our selection, our height is not tall enough. We have a big deficit in height. In football it is the same because when you see the statistic, a third or fourth of all the goals the team is scoring are from set-plays. Then the height is very important," Van Gaal said.

De Vrij's height is 1.89m and he fits the United manager's criteria of signing tall players. Van Gaal is still hoping a reunion with his compatriot could be on the cards in the upcoming transfer window.