Manchester United Transfer News: Kurt Zouma Would Be Smart Buy for Red Devils

Sir Alex Ferguson is looking to the future at Manchester United. The Red Devils' manager has said that he's targeting Kurt Zouma, an Under-19 centre back currently with St. Etiennes.

According to a report by the Daily Mail, Zouma has already been offered a new contract at St. Etienne, which means Man U will have to move this summer if they want to pick him up for his 8 million pound price tag. 

Zouma would be a great buy for the Red Devils, maybe not for right now, but definitely for the future. Zouma would come in as a long-term replacement for Nemanja Vidic and the rest of Manchester United's aging or leaving players. 

The Red Devils have sent scouts to Zouma's last few matches, trying to convince the star to come to Old Trafford.

The youngster has made 27 appearances for St. Etienne's senior squad, scoring two goals so far. Zouma is regarded as one of the best defenders in France and would be a great addition for the Red Devils, who are trying to fill in some long-term holes. 

Zouma has been looked at as a younger Marcel Desailly. He's a physical player with great speed and a well-balanced skill set. He's been touted as one of France's best young players and would be a great move for the future of Manchester United. 

The Under-19 stud might not have an immediate impact for the Red Devils, but if Fergie can lock up one of the best young players in France, Man U will be able to develop him for a few years and eventually prepare him to take over and become on of the new faces of Old Trafford. 

Man U currently sits at the top of the Premier League with a record of 18-2-3 with 56 total points. Their next match is against Fulham on Jan. 26.