Premiership: United linked with Dutch defender

Manchester United will have to bide their time before launching a bid to sign PSV Eindhoven defender Kevin Hofland.

The 22-year-old Dutch international is reportedly seen as the ideal long-term replacement for Jaap Stam following his £15.25million move to Lazio.

But Hofland’s father Huub, who is also the player’s agent, insists he will not leave PSV before next summer.

He said: ‘‘We have agreed with PSV that Kevin would, at least, play two seasons in Eindhoven. He will certainly finish this season at PSV.

‘‘After the current campaign, Manchester United or any other club could make PSV an offer.

‘‘If the parties involved fail to reach an agreement, Kevin will just stay in Eindhoven because he enjoys life there.’’

United have also been warned off making a move for Parma star Fabio Cannavaro.

Parma president Stefano Tanzi said: ‘‘We are not going to sell Cannavaro to anyone.

"A number of top Italian clubs have attempted to buy him but they received the same answer as everyone else no.’’

French veteran Laurent Blanc, 35, is expected to ease United’s immediate worries by switching to Old Trafford on a free transfer from Inter Milan.