Jose Mourinho will surely return to the transfer market for a new defender in the New Year.

The former Chelsea manager was desperate to bolster his defence in the summer after finishing 19 points behind Manchester City in the Premier League last season. Mourinho highlighted his back four as the main area of improvement, but United weren’t able to complete any deals.

Eager to make amends, the United board are willing to back Mourinho significantly when the window reopens. A defender is surely believed to be his number one priority. Therefore, the Red Devils should attempt to sign Espanyol defender – Mario Hermoso.

Valued at £18m by Transfermarkt, the defender joined Real Madrid at the age of ten and became a regular for their B team. Hermoso was unable to break into the first-team at the Bernabeu and was loaned to Real Valladolid.  The 23-year-old finally left the club for Espanyol last summer where he developed into a crucial first-team player.

Hermoso’s impressive showings have continued into the new campaign during his 10 La Liga appearances. The youngster is a fine defender who has no problem with the ball at his feet. Hermoso has also proven to be a goal threat from set-pieces, finding the back of the net twice already this term.

Still improving and developing, a move to Old Trafford could help take his game to the next level. Should his impressive performances continue in England, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see Hermoso receive a call-up to Luis Enrique’s Spain senior side. Unsurprisingly, the defender has been linked with a move back to Real – United must ensure they beat the Champions League winners to his signature.

Manchester United fans, thoughts?