Man U planning to bring Hulk to strengthen forward line

In order to strengthen Manchester United's forward line, Sir Alex Ferguson is planning to offer £20 million for Brazilian striker Hulk. Ferguson is an admirer of the Porto star and wants to strengthen his forward line as he bids for a fourth successive Premier League title.

The Brazil international has a clause in his contract that says he cannot be released for less than €100 million, but sources at the Portuguese club say a realistic offer of around £20 million would see Hulk leave the Estadio do Dragao at the end of the season.

"The big clubs in England have been in contact. They have asked for details about his contract situation but any decision about his future rests mainly with the directors of Porto," News of the World quoted player's agent Teodoro Fonseca, as saying.

"I am calm about the situation and so is the player because he has an excellent future. I think we could be discussing a move in April or May," he said.

A switch to United could spell the end for England striker Michael Owen, who has struggled to make an impact since signing a two-year contract last summer.

Hulk, 23, whose real name is Givanildo Vieira de Souza, has four years left on his contract and is also rated highly by Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger.

Hulk made his Brazil debut against England in November and now has two caps. He is likely to be named in his country's World Cup squad.

He got his nickname because of his stocky appearance and his likeness to actor Lou Ferrigno, who played the comic book hero.