Jose Mourinho joked it was the weather that took him to Brussels on a cold and misty Thursday night – but Manchester United fans will hope there was far more purpose to his trip.

Namely Toby Alderweireld, who started for Roberto Martinez’ side in the Uefa Nations League win over Iceland.

With Romelu Lukaku and Marouane Fellaini confirmed absentees beforehand, Mourinho knew he wouldn’t get the chance to run the rule over the United pair.

He is in the market for a top class centre back in January – and the Tottenham defender fits the bill.

The 29-year-old was on United’s list of defensive targets in the summer, but Ed Woodward was never going to meet Tottenham’s valuation, believed to be around £60m.

It’s understood United’s executive vice chairman held discussions with Spurs chairman Daniel Levy, when fielding approaches for two of his own players, with Anthony Martial among the names Mauricio Pochettino was keen to sign.

Despite Mourinho’s interest in Alderweireld, a deal was not struck during those talks.

But Mourinho remains an admirer and is pushing United’s hierarchy to back him in the transfer market when the window reopens in January.

Woodward is aware Alderweireld will be available for a significantly reduced price of £25.4m next summer, which could pave the way to compromise in the New Year.

United have told Mourinho there is money to spend in January – but are prepared to veto his targets, just as they did in the summer.

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Harry Maguire, who was another centre back targeted in the last window, also remains of interest to United, while the England international maintains hopes of playing for a Champions League club, despite just signing a new contract at Leicester.

But the prospect of negotiating a cut-price fee for Alderweireld could see him move to the top of Mourinho’s agenda. United’s manager was left bitterly frustrated by his failure to strengthen his rear guard ahead of this season – claiming his side would suffer as a result.

Sitting 12 points adrift of leaders Manchester City after last week’s 3-1 defeat at the Etihad, his fears have been realised.

Even if a title challenge was effectively ended by that result, Mourinho is still seeking reinforcements to boost his bid to secure a top four finish.