Barcelona are reportedly preparing to battle Manchester United for the signature of Leicester City defender Ricardo Pereira during the January transfer window.

United are believed to have identified the Portugal international as a potential signing, with the Red Devils expected to boost their squad before the transfer deadline.

However, according to The Sun, Barca are also very much in the hunt for the 26-year-old, who has excelled for Leicester since making the move to the King Power Stadium in July 2018.

The report claims that the Spanish champions have sent scouts to watch the right-back in action during the 2019-20 campaign amid uncertainty surrounding the future of Nelson Semedo.

Ricardo made 37 appearances for the Foxes last season and has already featured on 22 occasions at club level this term, contributing two goals and two assists in the process.

The Portuguese has a contract with the former English champions until the summer of 2023.