[h=1]United set to bid £12m for Celtic's Wanyama after watching Kenyan beat Barca[/h] By
Simon Jones
Manchester United are stepping up their interest in Celtic midfielder Victor Wanyama.
The imposing Kenyan was the Scottish side's hero in Wednesday night's epic 2-1 defeat of Barcelona, scoring his side's first goal and negating the threat of Xavi and Andres Iniesta.
His performance was noted by United with chief European scout Martin Ferguson in attendance at Celtic Park to watch the 21-year-old impress once again.
Barca beater: Victor Wanyama is attracting interest from Manchester United and Manchester City
Sportsmail first revealed United's interest in July and they have kept a keen eye on his progress.
QPR failed with a £10million offer for Wanyama in August while Manchester City, Arsenal and Sunderland have also shown interest.
Celtic signed Wanyama from Germinal Beerschot in Belgium for just £900,000 last year and last week manager Neil Lennon said he was worth £25m.
Heads we win: Wanyama puts Celtic 1-0 up against Barcelona
However, Premier League clubs are likely to offer around £12m in January with United weighing up their move. Manager Sir Alex Ferguson wants another midfielder and Wanyama's age will also appeal.
Former United defender Gary Neville, talking of the player's performance against Barcelona, said: 'That display has put him right in the shop window and Celtic will do very well to hold on to him.'
Wanyama, who made his debut for Kenya at just 15, is contracted to Celtic until 2014 and has already rejected an offer to improve his deal.