Manchester, Nov 27 (IANS): Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho is keen on signing Spanish side Atletico Madrid's Jose Gimenez to resolve the English Premier League football team's defensive woes.

Mourinho wants the Uruguayan to be signed in the mid-season transfer window in January, ESPN FC reported.

The Portuguese has become conscious of the fragility in the central defence. United have conceded 14 goals in 12 Premier League games this season, deepening Mourinho's pre-season concerns that they need a central defensive leader.

Mourinho has tried a series of partnerships at the heart of the backline to tackle the issue, but hasn't been able to find a satisfactory solution.

According to ESPN FC, the Spanish club may consider selling Gimenez as the 21-year-old has recently fallen out of favour with Atletico coach Diego Simeone.

The report also said Southampton's Jose Fonte has been identified as a back-up option for Mourinho if a move for Gimenez fails to materialise.

United will also try to sign a right-back, with French club Monaco's Fabinho the top target.