Now reports have emerged linking United with the 'new Ronaldinho', 18-year-old midfielder Douglas Costa, who is earning rave reviews at Gremio.

And while Ferguson is refusing to comment on that specific speculation, it is no coincidence United are starting to get linked with more Brazilians.

"We have invested in two full-time scouts in Brazil," said Ferguson.

"It is a country you should pay attention to. Historically, it has always been a country that produces fantastic footballers and players who can play in big games all the time.

"They have ability and enthusiasm."

While it may seem odd to cast the youth net so wide, Ferguson feels he is only following a trend that brought Sir Bobby Charlton down from the north-east in the 1950s and George Best across from Northern Ireland a decade later.

"It goes in cycles," said Ferguson.

"The north-east used to be a great hunting ground for scouts for many years.

"We had a spell in 1993. France had a great spell and are still producing some fantastic young players.

"Our scouts go to games and might get seen. It doesn't mean we are signing anyone."

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