Chelsea have joined Manchester United in their interest for Benfica defender Ezequiel Garay.

The Mirror says United and Chelsea sent scouts to Benfica's Stadium of Light on Thursday night to watch Garay.

The 27-year-old Argentine scored the opening goal as Benfica beat Spurs on aggregate to reach the Europa League quarter-finals. His central defensive partnership at the other end of the field, however - with Brazilian Luisao - has been pivotal as the club close in on the Portuguese title.

United are long-term admirers of Garay, but the Argentine blamed last summer's instability for his Old Trafford move falling through and there is now likely to be a summer battle for the player who is open to a move to the Premier League.