Manchester United have inquired about the possibility of signing Real Sociedad centre-back Robin Le Normand, who has a €75 million release clause.
According to Todofichajes, Manchester United are exploring the idea of bolstering their defensive unit by signing Robin Le Normand. They have already made an enquiry regarding the centre-back, who has emerged as one of the rising stars in recent seasons.
Sociedad, though, have refused all attempts to let the Frenchman away from San Sebastian, citing his hefty €75 million that is believed to be way too expensive for the Manchester United camp. However, the Premier League giants are hoping that the La Liga giants will be willing to negotiate a potential transfer in the summer.
Le Normand has been a part of the Real Sociedad side since 2016, gradually becoming a reliable first-team starter for La Real. Especially in recent years, the 24-year-old has become a defensive lynchpin in the side, notably featuring in 31 league matches last season.
The centre-back has been even more influential in the ongoing campaign, having built a formidable defensive partnership alongside Aritz Elustondo. He has stepped up brilliantly following the summer departure of key player Diego Llorente and his contributions in the backline have been critical in helping Real Sociedad attain one of the best defensive records in the league.
For Manchester United, Le Normand’s aerial prowess and ability to read the game could be useful as they look to add more quality to their backline. The defensive trifecta of Victor Lindelof, Eric Bailly and Harry Maguire may get more flak than they deserve, but the club desperately needs someone who can help them work even harder for a place in the starting eleven.
In addition, the Red Devils may also require some depth in the defensive unit as the likes of Phil Jones and Marcos Rojo have both been allowed to talk to other clubs in January. Rojo, in particular, has been linked with a move switch to Boca Juniors.
However, Manchester United’s reported pursuit of Le Normand could largely hinge on finances. It is almost guaranteed that the club will splash the cash on a new winger this summer, so they might not be able to spend a fortune on a new central defender.
The Frenchman’s €75 million release clause, in that regard, just doesn’t bode well for Ed Woodward, especially given the fact RB Leipzig star Dayot Upamecano could be up for grabs for just €45 million.
