Manchester United will make an offer in January to sign Brazil midfielder Fernando from FC Porto, according to Portuguese newspaper A Bola.

The midfielder, a tough-tackling defensively-minded player, has earned plaudits for his time in Portugal but has struggled to break into the national team despite his performances.

Here comes the bit that makes it more believable - Fernando's contract expires next summer, so Porto could be looking to make a sale while they can still cash in on his value.

Having very little time on their contract seems to be something that links a lot of our transfer targets. You can imagine the reasons why, but Fernando would still be a good signing for us, since he can play the deeper role much better than Marouane Fellaini. Our midfield would still be lacking a real passer and creator, but it might at least ensure we get bullied out of games slightly less.