The Sun says the Norwegian youngster is also interesting German giants Bayern Munich.
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United had scouts posted last month to check on 6ft 5in centre-half Helland in action against Viking Stavanger.
Bayern, meanwhile, had him watched a week ago against KFUM.
Norwegian sources say Helland, 20, has the potential to become the nation's greatest ever centre-back.
United have boasted the likes of Ronny Johnsen and Henning Berg in the past, with both former Norway defenders Champions League winners as United players.