Manchester United move interests Real Madrid's Fabio Coentrao

Real Madrid defender Fabio Coentrao admires Manchester United

Real Madrid defender Fabio Coentrao said he would be honoured to play for Manchester United if given a chance and refused to rule out a transfer at the end of the season. Coentrao joined Real Madrid for €30 million in 2011, and has a contract that will keep him at the Santiago Bernabeu until the summer of 2019.

The Portuguese international almost joined Manchester United back in 2013, but the move was squandered by a last-minute problem with paperwork. The deal would have seen the player move to Old Trafford on a season-long loan with an option for a future permanent deal.

The 27-year-old would not have any regrets as he helped Real Madrid win their elusive tenth Champions League trophy in 2014. But, now with the re-emergence of Brazilian full-back, Marcelo, Coentrao's game-time has been limited.

“It would be an honour to play at Manchester United”

A move to Old Trafford would be advantageous to both the player and the club, as United will receive an experienced and proven defender to strengthen their fragile back four while Coentrao will be getting more first-team football.

“I hope to get more playing time at Real Madrid and for the coach to trust in me," he said. "That has not really happened until now.”

When asked about his opinion on Manchester United he said, “I have already shown an interest in playing there [at Manchester United].

“It is one of the best clubs in the world, a club I admire a lot. It would be an honour to play there.”

While Benfica holds a special place in Coentrao’s heart as he played there from 2007-2011, he played down talks of a return.

“Everyone knows that Benfica is my home,” he added “I love Benfica and have a special affection for the club, but I still have four more years on my contract at Madrid.”