Real Madrid is continuing to draw closer to young Porto central defender, Eder Militao, according to Portuguese media reports.

The 20-year-old Brazilian has had an explosive start to his career in European football in La Liga Sagres, so much so that Madrid had sent scouts to the Estadio do Dragao to follow his performances first hand, claims newspaper A Bola.

According to the same newspaper, Madrid have even gone as far as to ask his transfer price, which Oporto has set at 50 million euros.

While he has not been the focus of much media attention, Militao is considered to be one of the most promising up-and-coming defenders in world football. Typifying the modern central defender, he is tall and physically imposing, manages well in the air, is aggressive in the tackle and can control the ball well. A versatile and quick player, Porto coach Sergio Conceiçao has also played him at right back and as a central midfielder so far this season.

But the young Brazilians preferred position is the centre of defence, where he has settled in well since his move from Sao Paolo in the summer for seven million euros, and he is a regular starter alongside his compatriot Felipe.

Militao is a target of several clubs

"He understood what was necessary to play at FC Porto. He is very aggressive at the back and also helps on the offensive side," Felipe has said of his new defensive partner.

His lack of footballing maturity leads him to have lapses in concentration and he must improve his decision making. But despite this, his age and his quick adaption to European football has placed him as a desired target for several top clubs.

Aside from Real Madrid, Manchester United have also been following Militao. In fact, he was the last request of Jose Mourinho to the United board before his dismissal earlier this week, and it is likely that his replacement Old Gunnar Solskjaer would not be against his acquisition to strengthen the Red Devils options in defence.