Sky sources understand Manchester United are interested in Everton defender Seamus Coleman Sky sources understand Manchester United are interested in Everton defender Seamus Coleman

Manchester United are interested in signing defender Seamus Coleman from Everton, according to Sky sources.

United are yet to make a bid for the Republic of Ireland star, but Louis van Gaal is keen on signing a player who has been one of the most consistent performers in the Premier League in recent years.

Antonio Valencia spent much of last season as van Gaal's regular right-back and right wing-back with Rafael suffering more injury problems and both Phil Jones and Chris Smalling more comfortable in central defence.

Phil Jones one of several players used at right-back by Louis van Gaal

Van Gaal wants to bolster his back-four options but at the same time, he wants his full-backs to offer quality going forwards too - Dani Alves had been linked with a move to Old Trafford before signing a new Barcelona contract and Liverpool-bound Nathaniel Clyne was also on United's list of potential targets according to newspaper reports.

Coleman fits the profile as he could play as an orthodox right-back and would be equally comfortable as a wing-back given van Gaal's penchant for three at the back.

Coleman also offers a threat going forward having scored nine Premier League goals in the last two seasons.

The 26-year-old joined Everton for just £60,000 in 2009 and has gone on to make 185 appearances for the club, scoring 12 goals while also winning 28 caps for the Republic of Ireland.

Meanwhile United are continuing their pursuit of Southampton central midfielder Morgan Schneiderlin, and Sky sources understand talks are ongoing over what would be a transfer in the region of £25m.