Everton's Leighton Baines is back on Manchester United's radar after Sir Alex Ferguson revealed he wants a cover for Patrice Evra.

Ferguson admitted United are looking for a new left-back and strengthen that position, according to the Daily Mirror.

Evra has been an ever-present at left-back over the past five years but the 31-year-old looked increasingly vulnerable last season.      

With Fabio Da Silva having joined QPR on loan and Ferguson is concerned there is no-one to cover at left-back if Evra is injured.              

Speaking in Durban, ahead of United's first game of their pre-season tour, Ferguson said: "Left-back is an area which we're paying attention to.

"Patrice, in the last five years has played an average of 45 to 50 games. It's phenomenal.

"I don't know if anybody else has achieved that. He's still a fit lad and has the same drive and ambition. He's a fighter.             

"Fabio went to QPR, which was so important for the boy because he has enormous ability, but he needs to play.             

"Because Evra, touch wood, is never injured, the opportunities haven't been there for the boy (Fabio).             

"He played a few games last season but it's not enough for a young boy of 21 years.             
"He needed to continue with his progress. With Fabio at QPR for a year, we're just a little short in that department.             

"That's why we're trying Robbie Brady at left-back.             

"We also have Tyler Blackett here - he's a big, strong boy, tall and quick going forward. But he's only just turned 18.             

"He has time on his side but he's here for the experience and he may yet surprise us."