Manchester United are reportedly considering making a move for Fulham’s Brede Hangeland in the January transfer window, as Sir Alex Ferguson looks to strengthen his defence.

Hangeland was linked with a move away from Craven Cottage in the summer but, with his contract due to expire at the end of the season, rival clubs were not willing to make sizeable offers.

Ferguson is now thinking about whether to beat the rush to sign the Norwegian when he becomes a free agent by making a bid for him in January.

At 31, the towering defender is older than the profile of player United usually go for, but they have struggled at centre-back this season and could benefit from his experience.