5 players from Ligue 1 who could join Premier League clubs in January

#4 Malang Sarr (OGC Nice to Manchester United)

Sarr could be Old Trafford's answer to Man City's Laporte

Manchester United are in desperate need of a centre-back, that much is obvious. The Red Devils have conceded 21 goals so far this season, same as 17th placed Southampton.

The fall from last season's 2nd best defence to basket case has been alarming. This is, after all, a team coached by Jose Mourinho; the love child of defensive rigidity and solidity.

Mourinho's attempts at getting a big name in the summer were rebuffed by vice-chairman Ed Woodward. This was due to the age, price tag and zero-resale value of the Special One's rumoured targets; Toby Aldeweireld, Harry Maguire, Jerome Boateng among others.

An answer that would please both men is shining in the French Riveria. Sarr has been an ever-present for Nice since he broke out aged just 16. A left-footed 19-year-old, the player is a tough tackling player who is great in the air and is aggressive in his play (a trait Mourinho loves).

The performances of the Aymeric Laporte-John Stones duo for Manchester City would have been an eye opener for the Portuguese tactician. Sarr's adaptability and style are similar to Laporte's. He could be the one to provide the much-needed balance and calm to a beleaguered United defence

An ever-present in Patrick Vieira's team so far, the U-21 French international will not come cheap if the Red Devils are to move for him. He could be the answer to a desperate prayer if the move transpires.