United Plot Bargain Bid for Atlético Madrid's Versatile Defensive Star - Report

Manchester United are considering an approach for Atlético Madrid defender Miranda, according to the Metro. The 28-year-old Brazilian international is a versatile defensive option for the Premier League champions, given his ability to play anywhere across the back four and even as a holding midfielder.

It is believed the Spanish club will want at least £6m for their player, who is contracted to the Vicente Calderon till 2016. United may have to face competition for their man though, with the Metro also linking Chelsea and Serie A giants Inter Milan with the player.

David Moyes is still waiting for his first big-name signing as United boss, with only Uruguayan youngster Guillermo Varela joining Old Trafford in the summer. The champions have been linked to a number of high-profile internationals, with Spain midfielder Cesc Fabregas the most prominent. However, the former Arsenal captain rejected the chance to return to England.

Atlético coach Diego Simeone is believed to be ready to release Miranda after confirming the transfer of Belgian international Toby Alderweireld. The 24-year-old was heavily tracked by Premier League clubs Liverpool and Tottenham but opted to join the La Liga side instead, who can offer the former Ajax star Champions League football this year.

Miranda joined Atlético in 2011, signing from Brazilian club Sao Paulo. He started 35 of 38 La Liga games last season, scoring two goals and creating three more; a very useful statistic for a centre-back. Miranda's goals last season also included the winner in the Copa del Rey final, where Atlético broke a 26-game winless streak against the Santiago Bernabeu giants.

Meanwhile, Moyes continues to monitor Belgian midfielder Marouane Fellaini; the Express believes the former Everton boss will offer Goodison Park chiefs £38m for Fellaini and England left-back Leighton Baines; the Scot is eager to strengthen his midfield options and has also been linked to Roma's Daniele De Rossi and Athletic Bilbao's Ander Herrera.

"I don't know how busy it's going to be but it's a busy football market. It might be busy in the next few days and I hope we do a little bit of business but I couldn't guarantee that," Moyes stressed.