Manchester United Transfer Rumour: Ferguson Targets Argentine Pair

Manchester United are reportedly considering bringing Benfica's Argentine duo Nicolas Gaitan and Ezequiel Garay to Old Trafford, according to the Daily Star.

The report states that United scouted the two players during Benfica's match with Porto at the weekend. Sir Alex Ferguson has long been an admirer of the 24-year-old Gaitan, and according to the Telegraph, the former Boca Juniors man was close to making a move to Old Trafford last summer.

The Premier League leaders are looking to add a winger to their ranks, as they currently have only three players (Ashley Young, Antonio Valencia, and the unsettled Luis Nani) who can play in wide positions. The addition of Gaitan to United's line-up will strengthen their squad as the Argentine is capable of playing both in central midfield or out on the flanks.

Gaitan's agent Jose Ibarren has previously revealed the player's interest in joining the Red Devils. Ibarren said last year: "Nicolás likes Manchester United a lot - he would like to play for Manchester United. If there is an offer for him Nicolás would be happy to listen and negotiate."

Meanwhile, Ferguson has been battling with defensive problems this season, allowing opponents to score 29 goals against his side. With injuries and age ravaging both Rio Ferdinand, 34, who is currently in the final year of his contract, and Nemanja Vidic, 31, who has been in and out with injury issues during the last two seasons, defence has been a major source of concern for United.

Northern Irishman Jonny Evans and English duo Chris Smalling and Phil Jones (the latter pair just returned from injuries) are the only other senior centre-backs at United. The addition of Garay to the squad will strengthen the back four as the former Real Madrid man has been in impressive form for Benfica this season.

However the Lisbon club will not let Garay go cheaply, as Benfica need to pay half the value of the Argentine's transfer fee to the Spanish champions.