Manchester United are planning a surprise £20 million raid for their former defender Gerard Pique, as reported by the Daily Star.
The Old Trafford club have suffered huge defensive problems since the start of the new season.
As a result, Louis van Gaal has made improving his defensive options a priority in the January window.
Top of his list is Gerard Pique, who struggled to make an impact during his previous spell at Old Trafford, before moving on to Barcelona.
Van Gaal definitely has the financial backing to make his dreams a reality, having been told that he is able to spend further after a £150 million summer outlay.
Pique might not be easy to sign, however, with the Spain international keen to stay at the Nou Camp.
His wife, Shakira, is also said to be disinterested in a move to Manchester, and this could put a dampener on any hopes that Van Gaal might have of snaring the elegant defender.
