United target former City star

Cape Town - Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal is intersted in signing former Manchester City midfielder Nigel de Jong, and it is reported that the club is in talks with the 29-year-old's representatives over a possible £8m move.

The Dutch international, who spent three years at local rivals Manchester City, is keen to work under countryman Louis van Gaal.

Van Gaal’s admiration for the tough-tackling midfielder was made clear during the World Cup, when after Holland’s 3-2 victory over Australia the manager said: ‘I don’t like singling out players, but Nigel de Jong was inspirational.’

Considering the lack of depth in the Manchester United midfield, especiall now with Ryan Giggs retired and Michael Carrick out due to injury, a £8m fee for an experienced international would be a great coup.