Manchester United Transfer News: Zouma, Moore, Nani and Anderson Involved in Latest Speculation

Given Ferguson's propensity for being coy about activities in the transfer market, such rumors may not be completely misplaced.

Monday's Daily Mirror leads with a story that United are set to launch a bid for young Leicester City defender Liam Moore. According to a report, Ferguson assigned his chief scout, Jim Lawlor, to run the rule over the 19-year-old during Leicester's 2-1 defeat to Blackburn on Saturday. United are said to be ready to step-up their interest with a host of Premier League clubs monitoring the England youth international.

While the player would likely be seen as one for the future, the Mirror suggests that he could also be a short-term solution to United's current defensive crisis. With injuries to Rio Ferdinand, Phil Jones, Chris Smalling and Jonny Evans, United have looked suspect at the back in their first two Premier League outings of the season as Michael Carrick has filled-in alongside Nemanja Vidic.

Moore is not the only young central defender to be linked with a move to Old Trafford in recent times. The Sun has become the latest publication to claim that United are also pursuing Saint-Etienne's Kurt Zouma.

The 17-year-old made 22 appearances in Ligue 1 last season and has started each of his clubs three games this term. Zouma also appeared for France in last summer's Under 17 World Cup. According to the Sun, United could be readying a £9 million offer.

There could also be movement out of Old Trafford in the final days of the transfer window. The Daily Mail has made the surprising claim that United are prepared to listen to offers for both Anderson and Nani. According to the report, bids of £15 million will be considered, with United looking to recoup some money following their spending this summer, highlighted by the signing of Robin van Persie.

Nani has been involved in intermittent speculation linking him with a move away from the club for much of the summer. Reports were sparked by the fact that the Portuguese winger has still yet to sign a new contract at the club, despite entering the final two years of his current deal. The 25-year-old started United's opening game defeat to Everton, but was left out of the squad that overcame Fulham on Saturday.

Anderson has struggled to establish himself as a regular at Old Trafford since arriving from Porto in the summer of 2007. Injuries and inconsistent form have hampered his progress, yet the Brazilian was in the starting lineup against Fulham.

The Mail suggests that Tottenham may be interested in the midfielder as they look to replace the departed Luka Modric. Given United's lack of depth in central midfield, it is difficult to see a move for Anderson being considered, however, unless a suitable replacement can be found. While United have been linked to young Mexican midfielder Hector Herrera, Ferguson has denied any interest in the player.