Jose Mourinho has sought to improve some key areas in his Manchester United squad since the summer transfer window opened on May 17.

Brazil international Fred was the first to join the Red Devils for £52m last month, with the 25-year-old seen as the perfect partner for Nemanja Matic in defensive midfield.

His arrival will free up Paul Pogba, allowing the Frenchman to roam further forward without having to worry so much about his defensive duties.

Diogo Dalot, 19, then completed a £19m move from Porto with the intention of challenging Antonio Valencia for the right-back berth.

And on July 3, United announced Lee Grant as their third signing of the summer and their new third-choice goalkeeper.

Grant's move confused fans but with Sam Johnstone recently joining West Brom and Sergio Romero currently sidelined through injury, Mourinho's intentions are clear.

So what's next for the Portuguese? It looks like a new centre-back is now the priority amid reported interest in England hero Harry Maguire and Tottenham's Toby Alderweireld.

DEFENSIVE REINFORCEMENTS

Maguire's value will have rocketed due to his performances at the World Cup, so convincing Leicester City to sell the 25-year-old will be tough.

As for Alderweireld, there appears to have been a huge breakthrough and it's nothing but good news for United.

According to the Daily Mail, Spurs are open to selling Alderweireld and will now consider a deal with United. They've even lowered their demands from £75m to £60m.

Alderweireld's previous value was a sticking point but United may be tempted to try again now that he's available for £15m less.

Clearly Tottenham have realised that they need to be flexible given Alderweireld's current deal expires next summer, when he will be available for free.

Extending the Belgian's contract is out of the question, too, because it would activate a £25m release clause.

United are now in a very strong position and there's reason to suggest Alderweireld is keen on a move to Old Trafford following his comments last month.

"I have another two years contract," said the 29-year-old. "Tottenham decides about my future. Of course I have my own idea, but that is not the case now."