Manchester United have joined the race for Hoffenheim defender Niklas Sule.

The Sun says they will battle Chelsea for Niklas Sule as Jose Mourinho looks to solve his defensive problems.

Scouts at the club have advised the Red Devils boss to target the Hoffenheim centre-half in January to supply cover for sidelined Eric Bailly and Chris Smalling.

United have struggled to find a centre back partnership that works and will now trust their scouts judgement as they look to recruit a player that can stop them shipping goals.

As far as Sule is concerned the German defender has attracted a host of interest from across Europe including Arsenal and Tottenham, but with both London clubs performing well at the back this season they are unlikely to chase a defender in January.

It leaves the door open for Man United and if the 21 year old can perform for the 20 time league champions like he has in the Bundesliga then it will be a great signing, possibly a season changer.