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Manchester United have received a boost in their pursuit of Ron Vlaar, after Paul Lambert admitted the Dutchman 'holds the cards' over his Aston Villa future.

The centre-back is out of contract next summer, with Villa unlikely to let his deal run down and allow him to leave on a free at the end of the season.

He continues to be linked with United, and a reunion with Louis van Gaal, after shining under the former Barca boss at the World Cup in the summer.

But despite the interest from the powers that be at Old Trafford, Lambert is still hopeful Vlaar, and midfielder Fabian Delph, can be convinced to commit their futures to Villa.

“This is a brilliant club regardless what football you’re playing,” said the Villa manager. “Those two lads have been fantastic for me the three years I’ve been here.

“They’re in their last year and from experience when you get into the Bosman ruling you hold that card.

“I’m delighted with the way they’re playing. Whether they’re in their last year or have ten years to go those lads are right behind the football club at the minute."

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The Red Devils are in desperate need of defensive reinforcements having been forced to use youngsters Tyler Blackett and Paddy McNair at the heart of their back four, or back five as it has become under Van Gaal, this season.

Injuries to Phil Jones, Jonny Evans and Marcos Rojo have triggered the makeshift the back line, with Michael Carrick also being used as an emergency centre-half.

United have been linked with Diego Godin and Mats Hummels, but any moves for those players are likely to come in the summer, with Vlaar possibly representing a cut-price bargain in the meantime.