According to the Manchester Evening News, Manchester United are interested in signing Napoli midfielder Jorginho as a replacement for Michael Carrick.

What's the story?

Carrick is still United's captain, but the 36-year-old has not represented the Red Devils since undergoing a heart procedure on September 20.

It is widely thought that the Englishman will retire next summer, whilst there are question marks surrounding the future of Marouane Fellaini, who is also out of contract at the end of the season.

According to the Manchester Evening News, United boss Jose Mourinho wants to sign at least one new central midfielder, and the Portuguese has identified Jorginho as a potential signing.

The report claims that United would like the deal to be completed in the January transfer window, although Jorginho would not be eligible to represent the 20-time English champions in the Champions League.

What are Jorginho's credentials?

Previously linked with Arsenal, Jorginho is a classy midfielder who combines mobility with a slick passing style.

The 26-year-old started his professional career with Verona before joining Napoli in the summer of 2014, and he has made more than 130 appearances for the Naples club in all competitions.

This season, Jorginho has scored twice and provided three assists in 15 Serie A appearances, whilst he has also netted once in the Champions League term.

It is understood that Mourinho sees the midfielder as the perfect foil for Paul Pogba and Nemanja Matic as the United boss looks to spend big once again in a bid to close the gap on Manchester City.

Jorginho, who is valued at £25.2m by transfermarkt.co.uk, might well command a high transfer fee, but he has all of the qualities needed to be a star in the Premier League.

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