Manchester United could be set to repeat Sir Alex Ferguson’s transfer tactic. (Image: Getty)

Manchester United have reportedly made a defensive signing a top priority in the summer transfer window, with Wolves’ Max Kilman on the shortlist in what represents a vintage Sir Alex Ferguson-esque swoop. Injuries have plagued Erik ten Hag’s centre-back options all season and Kilman could be the answer to their woes.

The Times claim that Kilman, who has started every single Premier League game this season for Wolves, is on United’s shortlist as they look to create a reliable partnership at the back next year.

The Red Devils’ priorities in Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s first full window at the club are a defender and a striker, with Kilman scouted by United on several occasions this campaign. The two clubs are yet to engage in negotiations, but the 26-year-old would reportedly demand a fee in the region of £40million, after £30m was turned down from Napoli in the summer.

The Wolves captain would represent a piece of business very reminiscent of Ferguson when the Scot was in charge at United. The Red Devils under their titanic former manager would often poach star players from their Premier League rivals, not just to improve their own squad but weaken those in the same division.

Wolves captain Max Kilman is on Manchester United’s summer shortlist. (Image: Getty)

The likes of Rio Ferdinand from Leeds, Robin van Persie from Arsenal, Carlos Tevez from West Ham, Dimitar Berbatov from Tottenham, Dwight Yorke from Aston Villa, Andy Cole from Newcastle and Antonio Valencia from Wigan are notable examples and Ferguson would revel in prising star players away from their direct competitors.

Wolves have languished in mid-table throughout the year under Gary O’Neil and left many impressed with their performances. Kilman has led by example at Molineux and would sorely be missed should he make the jump to Old Trafford, casting back to the days when Ferguson would routinely shop within England’s top flight.

Max Kilman could line up alongside Marcus Rashford next season. (Image: Getty)