Manchester United are ready to make a move for Everton defender Seamus Coleman as they look to solve their problematic right-back spot, sources have told ESPN FC.

Louis van Gaal is aiming to strengthen his side's defence this summer, with a new right-back a top priority.

Rafael da Silva has failed to impress Van Gaal as Antonio Valencia was forced to fill in at right-back for the majority of last season.

A number of players have been linked to fill the role, including Barcelona's Dani Alves and Southampton's Nathaniel Clyne, but United have missed out on the pair with Alves signing a new deal at the Camp Nou and England international Clyne on the verge of a move to Liverpool.

And sources say United are now ready to pursue a move for Coleman, a long-term target for the Old Trafford club, who considered making a move for the Irishman during the January transfer window.

Everton's Seamus Coleman could be the answer to Man United's problems at right-back. Ian Walton/Getty Images

Coleman has established himself as one of the best attacking full-backs in the Premier League after breaking into the Everton side under David Moyes.

Everton signed Coleman for a bargain £60,000 from Sligo Rovers in 2009, but it was only after a successful loan spell at Blackpool that Coleman came to the fore at Goodison Park.

The buccaneering full-back has been a mainstay in the Everton side in the last three seasons and he was rewarded with a new five-year deal last summer to keep him on Merseyside until 2019.

Van Gaal is a big admirer of the Republic of Ireland international, sources say, and believes he would be well suited to play further forward in a 3-5-2 or in the 4-4-2.

Coleman's new deal shows Everton are determined to keep hold of the 26-year-old, but they must be bracing for renewed interest from United as Van Gaal looks to build a side capable of challenging for the Premier League title.