Manchester United are being linked with a late move for Sporting Lisbon striker Ricky van Wolfswinkel.

The Sunday Mirror says United and Liverpool target Van Wolfswinkel is a ­wanted man - with Lazio ready to make a £13million bid for the Sporting Lisbon star this month.

United and Liverpool are keen on the striker but were expected to wait ­until the summer to make bids.

But they could yet be forced into action this month as Lazio are ready to enter the race to sign the highly-rated Dutchman.

Sir Alex Ferguson last year claimed he signed Phil Jones a year ahead of schedule as he got wind of interest elsewhere - and he could now be forced into a move for Van Wolfswinkel.