Manchester United seems to be interested in the entire universe these days as the team looks to rebuild itself from a few seasons of mediocrity.

The latest target is one of superstar proportions that could create major ripples throughout the soccer world if pulled off. No, it is not Cristiano Ronaldo, but it is a Real Madrid player.

His name? Sergio Ramos.

Ronaldo is undoubtedly the prized possession of Real Madrid. As they say -- 61 goals do not grow on trees.

Neither do elite defenders with tremendous offensive upside. That is what Sergio Ramos is to Madrid and more.

He is not only the team's defensive leader, he is also the alternate captain. If Iker Casillas leads the man who will be entrusted with the armband is none other than number four on Madrid.

Without Ramos, Real Madrid's defense becomes one massive question mark. Raphael Varane will one day exceed the talents of Ramos, but he must mature a bit more and also wait for his partner to decline. Pepe is already behind both on the depth chart and his evolution at this point is a mounting problem for Los Blancos. He is simply not an elite defender night in and night out.

If Ramos were to join United, the Red Devils would likely fix some major questions about their defense, leaving Madrid with major questions about their defense.

Would it ever happen?

At the current moment Madrid and Ramos have not come to terms on a new contract. This likely indicates that there is some tension revolving around the situation.

If Ramos refuses the terms offered than it is likely that Madrid sells him while his value is at its best.

Of course there might be more implications in a sale to Manchester United and his name is David De Gea. It is no secret that Los Blancos covet the Spanish keeper and this might be Manchester's trump card to selling the prospect and getting something valuable in return.

It should be interesting to see how this narrative unfolds.