Manchester United Midfielder Target Open for England Move

Manchester United have been handed a major boost in their pursuit to sign Benfica star Nicolas Gaitan at the end of the season after the midfielder's agent revealed that the Argentine international would be open for a move to England.

"He would love to play in England, but Spain and Italy also speak to him," Gaitan's agent Jose Iribarren said when asked about his client's possible move to Old Trafford.

Sir Alex Ferguson's side has long been linked with a move for the 25-year-old and the Scot could re-kindle his interest in bringing Gaitan to Old Trafford. Meanwhile, Iribarren had earlier admitted that the midfielder "likes" United and should there be any offer from the Red Devils for his services, he would be happy to negotiate.

"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," Iribarren was quoted as saying in 2012.

Meanwhile, the Mirror reports United scout Martin Ferguson was in the stands during Benfica's Europa League clash against Newcastle United at St. James' Park. It is believed that the Premier League champions were monitoring Gaitan and his club team mate Ezequiel Garay, who has also been linked with a move to Old Trafford.

United currently have the services of Anderson, Darren Fletcher, Ryan Giggs and Tom Cleverley in the central midfield role. Giggs just has just a year more left in his career, Fletcher currently suffers from a medical condition and the Brazilian is looking to make a move away from Old Trafford in the summer. The situation could leave Ferguson to enter in the market for a midfielder.

The Argentine has already featured in European competition and should United make a move to sign Gaitan in the summer, it is likely to strengthen their midfield and also bolster their squad.

The 25-year-old has made only 17 starts in all competitions this season. Despite his limited role, Gaitan has been in an integral part of Jorge Jesus' side, who currently sit on top of the Premiera Liga table with 73 points from 27 games and are also in the semi final of the Europa League.