Man United scouting Benfica defender Ruben Dias

Manchester United have sent scouts to watch Benfica youngster Ruben Dias as they search for defensive reinforcements at Old Trafford.

According to Italian publication Calciomercato, the Red Devils scouts are keeping a close tabs on the Portugal international, who could help the Premier League giants fill the void left in backline by the injured Eric Bailly.

The 20-time English champions have been short on options in the centre-back line with an injury to the 25-year-old Ivorian, who is expected to miss the rest of the season.

United will have to be aggressive once the mid-season transfer window opens in January, though, with the report goes on to claim that Serie A champions Juventus are also credited with an interest in Dias.