Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is chasing Everton defender Jack Rodwell.

The Daily Mail says Ferguson is already targeting Everton's 18-year-old utility player Rodwell as one for the future and has asked close associates for reports on the teenager's personality and potential.

Rodwell, who signed a five-year deal at Goodison Park in February, is also being tracked by Chelsea and Liverpool.

He has made his name as a defensive midfield player, but it is thought he has the potential to develop into a classy central defender in the future.

Any move by Ferguson for Rodwell would be hugely controversial, given the furore that surrounded Wayne Rooney's switch from Everton to United in 2004.