Mourinho draws up 4-man shortlist of defensive targets

New Manchester United manager José Mourinho has drawn up a four-man shortlist of defensive targets, as he turns his attention to strengthening the Red Devils' back line, according to reports.

Duncan Castles wrote for the Daily Record that the Portuguese coach has outlined his four primary targets as he begins to focus on bolstering his defensive options.

It is thought that Mourinho is willing to listen to offers for defenders Marcos Rojo, Daley Blind and Matteo Darminan.

And he has outlined a trio on central defenders who he sees as the ideal men to add some experience and quality to his defence.

His first-choice is Juventus' 29-year-old centre-back Leonardo Bonucci. The Italian is regarded as arguably the best in the world in his position and would command a transfer fee of as much as €70 million.

Mourinho's fall-back options should he be unable to capture Bonucci, are Southampton's José Fonte and Zenit Saint Petersburg's Ezequiel Garay.

Everton are also believed to be interested in 32-year-old Fonte and have even tabled an opening offer for the Portuguese.

Former Real Madrid defender Garay has been linked with a move to United several times in recent years.

Mourinho is also eying the addition of a right-back, with a bid for AS Monaco's 22-year-old Brazil international Fabinho being considered. The former Real Madrid loanee will cost around £22 million.