Man Utd transfer target Joao Palhinha put "at ease" by Cristiano Ronaldo

Manchester United transfer target Joao Palhinha is a keen admirer of Old Trafford hero Cristiano Ronaldo, having grown close to the forward while on international duty.

The 26-year-old has caught the eye of a number of big clubs across the continent with a series of impressive performances in the colours of Sporting - the side where a young Ronaldo first rose to prominence.

It is rumoured to be Palhinha's dream to one day ply his trade in the Premier League and United's interest is likely to have turned his head as the January transfer window draws to a close.

Last summer saw Sporting place a £33million price tag on their midfield lynchpin's head, but after no concrete bids were lodged the Portuguese giants have since lowered their valuation of the player to £25m.

United could be tempted to act, especially given their current midfield options have left a lot to be desired in recent months with both Scott McTominay and Fred coming in for criticism.

The Red Devils may have the edge over other potential suitors give they boast Ronaldo within their ranks, a player Palhinha has already had a positive experience with.

Speaking to Sporting's in-house media, Palhinha recalled his encounter with the five-time Ballon d'Or winner during his first call-up for the Portugal national side.

"Cristiano always put me at ease. I was used to seeing him on television since I was little, but the fact of being in front of him made my first call even more real," the United target explained.

"Being in the national team with him is a great source of pride for any player."

La Liga sides Sevilla and Atletico Madrid are also thought to be interested in the midfielder meaning United interim manager Ralf Rangnick may have to act fast to