Premiership leaders Manchester United are being linked with Owen Hargreaves, Gareth Bale and Joey Barton ahead of the January transfer window.

Hargreaves is a long-term target for Alex Ferguson and is currently recovering from a broken fibula in his left leg.

However he is close to regaining full fitness and the Mail On Sundayclaims a £12million deal will be finalised in the next fortnight.

Southampton star Bale has attracted the attention of a host of Premiership clubs but the Sunday Expresssuggest United are now leading the race.

They are reported to have offered a £3million immediate payment with a further £3million to follow depending on his progress.

Barton is reported to be in Ferguson's sights too should he fail to land Hargreaves next month. He would cost £5.5million with West Ham also said to be interested.