Despite the arrival of Alexis Sanchez, Manchester United are fully aware that rivals Manchester City will probably beat them to the Premier League title.

Sanchez will no doubt improve the Red Devils but Jose Mourinho’s side are highly unlikely to overturn City’s 12-point lead before the end of the season.

But to make sure they’re not in a similar position come next season, Mourinho wants to continue to strengthen his squad following Alexis' arrival.

And it’s no surprise to see the position that the Portuguese boss wants to improve next.

According to Miguel Delaney from the Independent, Mourinho wants to focus on his midfield with Michael Carrick retiring at the end of the season.

Also, with the future of Marouane Fellaini in doubt, United could be needing more than one midfielder in the summer.

And, according to the report, he has identified three players he wants to sign.

THE THREE PLAYERS MOURINHO IS INTERESTED IN

Delaney writes: “Shakhtar Donetsk’s Fred has become a main target, but there will be strong competition from City, and the Ukrainian club will want over £50m. United are also confident of doing a deal for 20-year-old Carlos Soler from Valencia, and Borussia Dortmund’s Julian Weigl.”

The report also states that United are still keen on Mesut Ozil, whose contract expires in the summer. But with the German demanding wages of around £300,000-per-week, Mourinho and Ed Woodward might decide against perusing a deal for him.

But before Mourinho signs anyone for United, it appears that he looks for three specific things in any player - ambition, drive and personality.

WHAT MOURINHO LOOKS FOR IN A PLAYER

That’s what he claimed after Sanchez completed his move from Arsenal on Monday.

“Alexis is one of the best attacking players in the world and he will complete our very young and talented group of attacking players,” Mourinho commented.

“He will bring his ambition, drive and personality – qualities that make a Manchester United player and a player that makes the team stronger and the supporters proud of their club dimension and prestige.”