Louis van Gaal sets sights on Stoke's Ryan Shawcross to bolster Man Utd's defence

LOUIS VAN GAAL has told executive chairman Ed Woodward he needs two new defenders – with ex-Manchester United centre-back Ryan Shawcross in the frame.

The United boss is eyeing right-backs and central defenders and Stoke skipper Shawcross is being considered.

Shawcross, 27, quit United six years ago because of a lack of first-team opportunities but he has blossomed at The Britannia.

Van Gaal’s ideal signing at the heart of defence would be Borussia Dortmund hardman Mats Hummels, 25.

But Shawcross would be a cheaper alternative at £12million.

Meanwhile, the Old Trafford chief hopes to secure United’s defensive future with a January bid for £3m-rated rising star Terence Kongolo.

The Feyenoord centre-back, 20, was a surprise inclusion in Van Gaal’s Holland squad for the World Cup and is tipped to go right to the top.

Kongolo made one appearance in Brazil as a late substitute against Chile.

United are willing to let him see out the season with Feyenoord, where he is under contract until 2017, with a view to bringing him into their squad next season.