Manchester United scouts are keeping tabs on St Etienne fullback Faouzi Ghoulam.
United boss David Moyes wants a new left-back signing for January and his scouts have recommended 22 year-old Ghoulam.
France Football says United representatives have been regulars at Ligue 2 games featuring Les Verts this season.
But Moyes, should he firm up his interest in Ghoulam, will face competition from AC Milan and AS Roma for the left-back, who can also play as an out-and-out winger.
