Alfie Mawson could be in line for a stunning summer move to one of the big clubs, with Manchester United sending scouts to check up on the Swansea defender.
Manchester United could end their search for a new central defender within the Premier League itself, with the Red Devils showing interest in Alfie Mawson, according to The Sun. United sent scouts to watch the Swansea defender in action during the Welsh outfit’s 1-1 draw against West Bromwich Albion last weekend.
Alfie Mawson was one of the breakout stars of the 2016-17 season as Paul Clement oversaw a heroic late charge from Swansea to beat the drop. Mawson has continued to impress onlookers with assured performances at the back, taking on more of a leadership role within the team, despite a change in managers, with Carlos Carvalhal at the helm now.
Mawson’s technical ability, his composure at the back combined with a knack of propping up with important goals is what has been drawing interest from the top clubs. Tottenham have been vested with interest in the youngster for a while now. But, it seems another top club has joined the chase, with Manchester United reportedly tracking the 24-year-old.
Manchester United have a gamut of stars to choose from in central defence. But, only Eric Bailly has been able to make a lasting impression on Jose Mourinho, with Phil Jones struggling with injuries and Victor Lindelof yet to truly find his feet in England. While Daley Blind has been cast into wilderness of sorts, Chris Smalling has been used but has often come under criticism for his inconsistency.
Jose Mourinho will be looking to bring in another defender, with reports that the Portuguese is ready to sacrifice Phil Jones and Chris Smalling in the summer. While United have been linked with the likes of Dayot Upamecano and several other talented defenders, Alfie Mawson could actually take the cake.
Mawson, unlike Upamecano, will have two seasons of Premier League under his belt before the summer and will also add to the gamut of English players that are already at Manchester United. The 24-year-old has already been called up by Gareth Southgate to the senior England setup and the Swansea man is expected to be handed his debut in the near future.
Tottenham had already been made aware that it would take a bid in excess of £40 million in order to prise away the Swansea star. And while the fees is unlikely to be a barrier for Manchester United, Mourinho might deem the price to be a tad too steep for a player who is yet to be a full-fledged senior international.
For now, Manchester United’s scouting reports would have been rather reassuring, with Alfie Mawson putting in a great defensive performance against West Brom. And if he continues to impress till the end of the season, a summer move to Manchester United would not be too much of a surprise.
