AC Milan are bracing for a January bid from Manchester United for young attacker Stephan El Shaarawy. The striker has netted four goals in three games for the fallen giants and come to the attention of United boss Sir Alex Ferguson.

Gazzetta dello Sport says Ferguson has received glowing reports from his scouts on El Shaarawy and is now weighing up a January move for the youngster.

El Shaarawy can play in attack and also midfield and is an Italy U21 international.