Manchester United Target Summer Move for Brazilian Left-Back - Report

Manchester United are considering a move for Porto defender Alex Sandro at the end of the season, according to the Daily Mail.

The Premier League leaders have French international Patrice Evra for the left-back role and the report suggests Sandro is seen as a long-term replacement for the former Monaco star. United scouts were in the stands to watch the 22-year-old during the Portuguese club's Champions League tie against Malaga.

Evra is currently enjoying a good run at Sir Alex Ferguson's side, after struggling for form during last season. United had signed Alexander Buttner from Dutch side Vitesse Arnhem last summer. However, the 24-year-old has failed to feature regularly at Old Trafford, especially with the French left-back performing well.

Ferguson has long been looking to sign Everton and England left-back Leighton Baines. However, the hefty price tag on the player has been the roadblock in bringing the Toffees' star to Old Trafford.

Sandro has been in impressive form for the Portuguese club after completing his move from Santos in the summer of 2011. Should Ferguson manage to bring the Brazilian to England at the end of the season, it would give the Scot an exciting option for the left-back position.

United Stopper Hails Ferguson

Meanwhile, David de Gea has hailed Ferguson and claimed the Scot is a father figure at Old Trafford. The Spaniard has been the subject of constant criticism since his arrival in 2011 but Ferguson had offered his support to him. The stopper also admitted that he is happy at Old Trafford.

The ex-Atletico Madrid player claimed Ferguson and Spain coach Vicente del Bosque are two of the best managers in the world.

"I know Ferguson a little more and he is like a father, especially for young people. The truth is that many times the criticism does not make much sense but I prefer not to pay much attention and keep training and keep playing. They [Ferguson and del Bosque] are two great coaches and everyone has their own things but yes, the two are very paternalistic," de Gea explained.