Manchester United reportedly face stiff competition in their pursuit of Real Madrid defender Sergio Ramos.

What's the word?

Reports in recent months have revealed that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is searching for defensive reinforcements in the summer and has targeted the highly-rated Ramos as one of his top targets.

According to Fabrizio Romano, the Red Devils are still interested in signing the 34-year-old veteran, but Paris Saint-Germain are also keeping tabs on the centre-back.

Spanish publication Todofichajes.com recently claimed his brother Rene Ramos is set to travel to England to discuss terms on a two-year deal at Old Trafford.

However, contrary to these latest reports, Romano also claims United have not made contact with the defender's representatives in the last few weeks. However, PSG's reported interest should force Ed Woodward's hand before it's too late.

Ed Woodward must act now

It's no secret that the French champions are incredibly wealthy, but stealing Ramos from right under their noses would send a real statement of intent to the rest of the world.

United reached a new low in defeat to Sheffield United last month which has laid bare the full extent of their defensive woes. Promoting young players like Axel Tuanzebe is the right thing to do for the future, but they also need players they can rely on right now.

Harry Maguire has been expected to shoulder the burden of responsibility at Old Trafford but even the former Leicester City man can't perform miracles and he needs an experienced and seasoned veteran alongside him to take his game to a whole new level.

Ramos, therefore, could be the perfect fit. Given his age, there may be some concerns about his lack of pace, but his experience and class could help to plug the gap in their leaky defence.

Despite his age, Ramos - who earns around £312,000-per-week at the Bernabeu - is currently averaging 1.1 tackles per game while Victor Lindelof has made just 0.8 tackles this term. Crucially, he also chips in with 1.5 interceptions per 90 across all competitions, suggesting he boasts a fine positional sense and awareness as well.

Now United could attempt to strike a deal with his agent to bring the centre-back to Old Trafford this summer as Solskjaer gears up to plan for the future ahead and for another crack at the Premier League title next term.

AND in other news, Manchester United urged to sign West Ham star Declan Rice by Trevor Sinclair...