Manchester United Transfer News: Nikola Maksimovic Eyed, Paul Pogba Rumours

Manchester United have been linked with Serbian centre-back Nikola Maksimovic, who has been dubbed "the new Nemanja Vidic."

According to GianlucaDiMarzio.com translator David Amoyal, the Torino defender is set to move in the summer and United have emerged as "contenders" for his signature after signing Matteo Darmian from the Serie A outfit last season.

As Jamie Anderson of the Daily Star added, the 24-year-old is already earning comparisons with compatriot and former United star Vidic.

Maksimovic has been limited to just 13 league appearances this season due to an injury suffered in September, but he has impressed on his return to the team.

One of his biggest strengths is his ability to read the play, resulting in him making 53 interceptions in Serie A this season, according to Squawka. He has also won 24 tackles, 14-of-18 headed duels and completed 13-of-19 attempted take-ons. Most impressively for a defender, he has also created 16 chances.

Amoyal believes he deserves more plaudits and highlighted his passing as another strength to his game:

An excellent all-round defender who's comfortable on the ball, Maksimovic would make an excellent acquisition for United, who could do with recruiting a long-term defensive partner for Chris Smalling given the unreliability of Marcos Rojo and Phil Jones.

Luca Bruno/Associated Press

The Red Devils have also been named as one of a host of clubs hoping to sign Paul Pogba from Juventus this season. 

According to Matteo Pierelli of Italian newspaper La Gazzetta dello Sport, United join Chelsea, Manchester City and Real Madrid in pursuit of the Frenchman, who it is believed will cost €80 million at a minimum.

Pogba has transitioned into the No. 10 role at Juventus this season and after a slow start to the campaign has thrived in his new position, scoring six goals and assisting nine in all competitions.

The 22-year-old has often treated Bianconeri fans to a number of sublime displays and showcased his exceptional skills, per BT Sport Football:

As the midfielder has already played for them, United could find it easier to land him due to his familiarity with the club or equally face a tougher challenge in convincing him to rejoin, having let him go as a youngster without giving him a chance to prove himself.

Whichever club does manage to sign him will have not only acquired one of Europe's most coveted rising stars, they'll have also won a major coup over their rivals.