Manchester United Prepare Move to Sign Austrian Star - Report

Manchester United are considering a move to sign FC Basel defender Aleksandar Dragovic, according to Tutto Mercato Web. The 22-year-old has made no secret of his desire to play in England and has set his eyes on emulating role model Nemanja Vidic, stating: "My goal is to play in England. I hope to retrace the steps and the career of my model Nemanja Vidic of Manchester United."

The Austrian international has also been linked by the Express with moves to Everton and Arsenal, with the Goodison Park club thought to be leading the race. However, with Toffees' boss David Moyes set to join United on 1 July and the Old Trafford club thought to be looking for central defensive options, Dragovic may realise his dream soon.

Dragovic has had a good season with the Swiss club, having reached the semi final of the Europa League and made 29 appearances in the Super League so far. Basel lead the table with a six point gap to second-placed Grasshopper, with three games left in the season.

The defender also revealed he has had contact with compatriot Andreas Weimann, who is at Aston Villa.

"I regularly speak to Andreas, who has told me a lot about how much he enjoys playing in England. It's competition at the highest level, which is what I am looking for. The fans are fantastic, and the clubs command a lot of respect around the world," Dragovic told the Sun.

Arsenal have also reportedly scouted Dragovic this season, with chief scout Steve Rowley at White Hart Lane for Basel's Europa League tie against Spurs. The Swiss club's sporting director, Georg Heitz, has confirmed interest from the Premier League but refused to identify the clubs.

The Gunners may be facing a defensive crisis themselves, with reports key defenders Thomas Vermaelen and Laurent Kosicelny will leave. Catalan giants Barcelona are interested in the out-of-favour Belgian and Champions League finalists Bayern Munich are believed to be looking at the Frenchman.