Manchester United have reportedly identified Joao Mario as the man to replace Henrikh Mkhitaryan at Old Trafford in the new year, according to reports in the Italian newspaper Corriere dello Sport, as quoted by Daily Mirror.

United manager Jose Mourinho ramped up his interest in the Inter Milan midfielder as a possible target for the January transfer window.

Mkhitaryan has struggled to hold down a regular spot in the first team at Old Trafford and was once again left out of the first team during the 1-0 win over Bournemouth on Wednesday night.

The Armenian’s lack of playing time this term has prompted suggestions that he could be on his way out of the Manchester giants, and it is claimed that Mario could be lined up as his replacement.

The 24-year-old Portugal international has made 11 Serie A appearances for Internazionale so far this season.

Mkhitaryan, meanwhile, racked up five assists and scored only once in 12 Premier League appearances this season, but he has not featured since 25 November.