Jose Mourinho looking at five defenders for Manchester United?

Jose Mourinho has reportedly picked five defenders as potential new signings for Manchester United should he take charge at Old Trafford in the summer.

The former Chelsea boss, who was sacked by the Blues in December, has been heavily tipped to replace Louis van Gaal at the end of the season.

The Dutchman has had a difficult season, but his prospects improved last week as his team overcame tests against Shrewsbury Town in the FA Cup, FC Midtjylland in the Europa League and Arsenal in the Premier League on Sunday, when United sealed a 3-2 victory on home turf.

Even though, Mourinho is a contender for the position and according to Sport he has already placed defenders John Stones, Raphael Varane, Marc Bartra, Aymeric Laporte and Marquinhos on his wishlist.

United have spent more than £300m on transfers over the past few years under managers Van Gaal and his predecessor David Moyes.