Sportmediaset.it reports that Manchester United are eager to land Fiorentina‘s highly-rated goalkeeper Sebastien Frey. The Old Trafford-based club have been following the Frenchman, who has been outstanding for the Viola this season.

It is said Frey would be the future heir to Edwin van der Sar between the sticks. The Dutchman’s contract expires in the summer and Sir Alex Ferguson is keen to ensure he lands the right replacement.

Capturing Frey will be difficult though as his contract expires in 2013 and he signed an €18 million release clause two years ago amid interest from Milan. Furthermore, with a place in the Champions League last 16, the Viola are unlikely to sell one of their prized assets mid-season.

La Gazzetta Dello Sport are also reporting an interest from United in Frey. The pink sports paper claims the Viola are looking at Bologna goalkeeper Emiliani Viviano in case the Frenchman moves to Manchester.