Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson sees Palermo defender Simon Kjaer as an ideal replacement for Nemanja Vidic.

The Daily Mail says Kjaer has come to United’s attention after a series of inspirational performances for Palermo.

The 20-year-old has an £11million buy-out clause in his contract with the Italian club.

The Premier League champions know his value could soar if he plays well in next summer’s World Cup and want a deal before then.

Kjaer is also a target for Liverpool after a recommendation from his compatriot, Daniel Agger, and Juventus are believed to be weighing up a bid.