Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal is planning to introduce a 3-4-3 system next season.
The Mirror says following Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic's departure, the idea is to bring in a couple of adaptable centre backs, making Germany's Mats Hummels an even more significant target.
The versatility of Arsenal captain Thomas Vermaelen would also work in that way of playing, with extra demands placed on current defensive duo Phil Jones and Chris Smalling.
The new system is also likely to include Luke Shaw and Antonio Valencia as wing backs, with Wayne Rooney, Juan Mata and Robin van Persie making the front three.
