Manchester United and Tottenham Dealt Blow in Hector Moreno Chase

Manchester United and Tottenham have received a huge set-back in their battle to sign Hector Moreno after the centre-back broke his shinbone during Mexico's World Cup defeat against Holland.

The 26-year-old Espanyol defender was forced off just before half-time after smashing his leg against Arjen Robben.

His worst fears were confirmed by Espanyol, he is expected to be on the sidelines for at least five months - missing the first part of the season.

Moreno's agent recently revealed the 26-year-old defender wanted a move away this summer with both United and Spurs monitoring the situation.

"Moreno is leaving Espanyol. He wants to leave and we're looking for another team in Europe," the player's agent said.

Espanyol president Joan Collet added fuel to the rumours revealing they had already received a bid for Moreno, with reports in Spain suggesting it came from one of the Premier League giants.

"We have received a proposal for Moreno from a foreign club but it has not been through an official document," Collet said.

Mauricio Pochettino signed Moreno for Espanyol during his spell at the Catalan side while Louis van Gaal managed him at AZ Alkmaar.

Both managers were understood to be monitoring his situation and after excelling with Mexico during the World Cup group stage they were ready to bid for his services.

However, with Moreno now unlikely to return to action before Christmas the Premier League giants may reconsider their transfer plans.

United are desperately looking for a centre-back after Nemanja Vidic and Rio Ferdinand confirmed their departure from Old Trafford while Spurs' boss wants a replacement for Michael Dawson, who is reportedly ready to leave White Hart Lane.