Old Trafford side join Barcelona in chase for FC Porto defender.
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Man United boss David Moyes has reportedly joined the race to capture FC Porto youngster Eliaquim Mangala according to Italian source CalcioMercato.
The highly rated French international centre-back has been in fine form over the past 18 months and scouts from Man United and Barcelona are said to have been present at FC Porto’s opening fixture of the season, an away win at Vitória de Setúbal.
Though Moyes has seen his trusted veteran pair of Nemanja Vidic and Rio Ferdinand start the season in solid fashion the Scot is no doubt keen to plan for the future and given age and injury concerns over the duo it would appear to make sense to look at long term replacements.
Mangala helped his FC Porto side to the domestic title last term during which his side conceded just 14 goals in 30 fixtures.
Prior to his move to the Estadio Dragao the 22 year old defender spent three successful seasons with Belgian side Standard Liege and his form at FC Porto has helped secure him a spot in Didier Deschamps French national team set-up.
Though Moyes can also call upon Jonny Evans, Phil Jones and Chris Smalling to fill central defensive roles the Man United boss may feel that Mangala is a superior option to those in his armoury.