Man Utd's defence is in tatters, with Jose Mourinho unable to turn the Red Devils into a team capable of challenging at the top of the table. Granted, the Red Devils have struggled up and down the pitch, but it's fair to say that many of their issues lie at the back.

With the likes of Victor Lindelof, Chris Smalling, Phil Jones and Eric Bailly all flattering to deceive, it's essential that Jose Mourinho improves his defence if he's to have any chance of battling his way back into the top four.

Fortunately, that's exactly what he's looking to do, at least according to the Daily Star. The Daily Star report that Mourinho is keen on Bournemouth man Nathan Ake, and that's the sort of move that could help transform Man Utd's season.

After all, Ake is just the sort of defender that Man Utd lack. Consistent and robust, the Dutchman has impressed since swapping Chelsea for Bournemouth. He's brilliant in the tackle and he's relentless in his pursuit of defensive solidity, and he's been crucial in Bournemouth's quest to improve their back-line.

However, for all of his defensive traits, he's also just as capable with the ball at his feet. A brilliant passer and mobile on the ball, Ake is able to drift out of his defence and make an impact moving forward, too, and so for a Man Utd team that likes to play out from the back, he'd be a great asset.

His versatility is also important. He's able to play both in defence and midfield, and given Nemanja Matic's struggles this season, there would certainly be space for him in the team in both roles at Old Trafford.

At his core, Ake is just a solid defender - and that's exactly what Man Utd lack right now.