Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal is considering making a January move for Aston Villa captain Ron Vlaar, according to reports.

Van Gaal is thought to be keen to strengthen his defence and Vlaar, who is out of contract at the end of the season, may be picked up cheaply, The Guardian reports. However, it is believed that no contact with Villa has been made.

Dutch international Vlaar was managed by Van Gaal at the World Cup and has been repeatedly linked with a move to Old Trafford since, while United's defensive injury woes have plagued their season with Jonny Evans, Chris Smalling, Phil Jones and Marcos Rojo missing multiple games.

Vlaar has been Aston Villa captain for the past three years.