The Red Devils have cast their net far and wide in a bid to assess the possibility of bringing in new blood ahead of the upcoming Champions League transfer deadline, with a forward and defender top of Ferguson's wish-list.
Although Wes Brown is on his way back to full fitness, it could be argued that United are still rather short of options at the heart of their defence, with Laurent Blanc's arrival failing to compensate for the loss of Jaap Stam to Lazio.
Sanz, the son of former Real Madrid Lorenzo, has been linked with a move to Old Trafford recently, even though Spanish sources doubt his ability to play on such a stage, after being off-loaded by the capital club.
In fairness, the 28-year-old has gone some way to rebuilding his reputation with Malaga, and the mid-table side have confirmed they have received a request from United for two passes for the weekend clash with Real.
It may transpire that the Premiership leaders are merely keeping tabs on the visitors, ahead of a possible match with one of the Champions League favourites later in the competition, but Sanz's eligibility does make him an attractive option.
Sanz admitted being flattered to hear of United's interest, but stressed he was keen to stay with Malaga.
However, his contract expires in 2003, and the club may look to cash in on his talents.
If Ferguson was willing to spy on a striker instead, outstanding hit-man Dario Silva would be virtually impossible to prise away from La Rosaleda, as he stated when putting pen-to-paper on a new deal that it would be "the last contract" of his life.
