United Set Sights On Witsel

The English tabloids are reporting that Manchester United have joined the ever-lengthening queue for Axel Witsel, the Standard Liege youngster...

According to the Daily Mail, Sir Alex Ferguson dispatched his scouts to watch Witsel in Liege's UEFA Cup clash with Sevilla last week.

The 19-year-old midfielder was particularly impressive as the Jupiler Pro League champions claimed a 1-0 victory over their Spanish visitors, and a bidding war is set to break out.

Bolton Wanderers have already asked whether the young midfielder would be available for around €7.5 million, but Liege are seeking nearly twice that amount.

Inter Milan's recruitment staff were in attendance at the Stade Maurice Dufrasne last Thursday, while Arsenal and Manchester City are also thought be interested in Witsel.

If the Belgian international does move to England in January, he would join his compatriot and former Standard team-mate, Marouane Fellaini, who moved to Everton on September 1.

It is thought Witsel may replace Owen Hargreaves at Old Trafford, as the Canadian-born player has been ruled out for the rest of the season after undergoing knee surgery.