Schalke 04 goalkeeper Manuel Neuer remains a major target for Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson.

The Mirror says Ferguson sent goalkeeping coach Eric Steele to cast his expert eye on the 6ft 4in giant who celebrated his 24th birthday at the weekend.

Steele saw Neuer in action against Bayern Munich in a German Cup tie last week and Fergie's keen if the price is right - with Schalke looking for around £10m.

Neuer will go to the World Cup finals in Germany's squad and is tipped to become their number one sooner rather than later.

The Reds know they don't have van der Sar's full-time replacement within their own ranks after Ben Foster flopped - and Neuer is now moving into pole position.