Manchester United are being linked with a January move for PSV Eindhoven's Kevin Strootman, one of Europe's most highly-rated midfielders.

If there is one thing apparent in a Manchester United team filled with attacking talent that can score goals against any opposition, it is the lack of that driving midfielder capable of breaking up play as well as turning defense into attack in the blink of an eye.

Ever since the departure of Roy Keane, United have lacked such a player, similar to the travails that Arsenal have gone through since their own captain Patrick Vieira left. While Sir Alex Ferguson has continued to strengthen his side, both in defense and attack quite well, he hasn't been able to bring that player that dominates the midfield.

Anderson was brought in from Porto for a considerable fee with that view, but the midfielder has rarely produces the kind of performances expected from him.

While several fans expected Ferguson to strengthen the midfield over the summer, before the start of the season, they were left disappointed. However, that can all change, if the Dutch press are to be believed with United again being linked to the talented Strootman.

According to several reports, PSV are already resigned to losing the 22-year-old, and have made plans to replace him with Swedish international Oscar Hiljemark, currently plying his trade with Elfsborg.

Strootman, who has been tracked by United for quite some time now, will cost the Red Devils anywhere between £15-20 million ($24-32 million) and Ferguson might be ready to step up his interest when the transfer window opens in January.

Strootman's agent Chiel Dekker had recently ruled out a January exit for his player, but with PSV reportedly already lining up a replacement, the chances of United finally getting their hands on the talented midfielder have gone up considerably.