United chasing Real's Salgado

Manchester United are interested in capturing Real Madrid defender Michel Salgado, whose contract with the Spanish giants runs out next June.

Wednesday's edition of the Marca sports daily, said United had refused to comment on their purported interest.

The daily added that the Premiership champions saw Salgado as the man to bolster their back four with England man Gary Neville a doubt for his club's opening league game against Bolton on Saturday after damaging a hamstring on United's US tour.

Salgado has yet to open talks over a new contract with Real, who media reports said were looking to keep the player at least until his current deal expires.

United have also been linked with Barcelona's Carles Puyol.