Manchester United tracking £20m Fabio Coentrao amid fears over Patrice Evra

Pursuit: Fabio CoentraoSir Alex Ferguson has stepped up his pursuit of Portugal left-back Fabio Coentrao after learning that Benfica have already launched the search for his replacement. Sportsmail first revealed that United were tracking the 22-year old defender last month, and Ferguson is understood to have followed up his interest by contacting Benfica's board and asking to be kept informed of developments. He can expect a call back before long, after it emerged thatBenfica are currently running the rule over two left-backs, Taye Taiwoat Marseille and FC Copenhagen's Oscar Wendt. United are considering a bid for £20million-rated Coentrao, amidgrowing concerns over the future of Patrice Evra, who is still weighingup a possible move abroad at the end of the season. But they will face stern competition from Real Madrid, who have alsosounded out Benfica about their World Cup left-back and are ready tomatch any offer from Old Trafford.  Anelka eyes repeat of Arsenal days as Chelsea bid to pip Man United to titleThe Becks-Factor! Redknapp's happy with new buzz around Tottenham  Explore more:People: Alex Ferguson, Patrice Evra Places: Portugal

Source: Daily_Mail