Axel Witsel has emerged as a key target for Manchester United.

The Reds look certain to miss out on Lucas Moura, the Brazilian international, who is expected to join Paris St Germain from Sao Paolo in a £36million deal.

Sir Alex Ferguson will now turn his attention to Benfica star Witsel, who enjoyed a fine season following his move from Standard Liege last summer.

The 23-year-old Belgian international has a buyout clause of around £30million in his contract, but Ferguson would look to take the midfielder for £20million.