Manchester United have joined the chase for Stefan de Vrij, with Tottenham also interested in bringing the Inter Milan defender in January.
According to Calciomercato, Stefan de Vrij is attracting plenty of interest from Premier League sides. Manchester United have entered the chase for the Dutchman, with Tottenham also keen on the centre-back. Inter Milan are pushing to renew his contract but could entertain offers if the player’s decision is different.
Stefan de Vrij was an important signing for Inter Milan five years ago. The influential defender solidified their backline and held an important position in the side that won the Serie A title under Antonio Conte. The Nerazzurri finished runners-up last term, with the Dutchman again showing his experience during the season.
Inter Milan have a sufficient number of central defenders on the side, but they value the experience of de Vrij. Simone Inzaghi certainly values the player, who has the second-most minutes for the club this term. The Dutchman’s deal expires in the summer, with the Serie A giants keen to extend his stay.
The 30-year-old defender is evaluating his situation at San Siro but realises the next contract could become his last big one. The centre-back wants to maximise the opportunity and keeps things open regarding interest from other sides.
Real Madrid held an interest, but the attraction of Premier League football could have a pleasing effect on the 30-year-old defender. There are plenty of sides in England where he could slot in straight away and perform well. He could still have the luxury of choosing from one of the biggest sides, as Tottenham and Manchester United seem to contest for his signature.
With an expiring contract, the Premier League clubs are sensing a financially viable opportunity to sign an experienced defender. Tottenham were considered favourites up until now, considering Conte knows the player and the Dutchman fits the Italian’s system properly.
Spurs like to play with a back three, and de Vrij performs a similar role at Inter Milan. Conte desperately wants a player of the Dutchman’s stature to come in and strengthen the backline. Their current options have underwhelmed, especially showing a leaky side as Tottenham continues to concede plenty of goals.
Now, Manchester United have reportedly entered the chase for the 30-year-old defender. Erik ten Hag reportedly wants his compatriot to add competition to the backline. The Dutch manager has preferred to pair Raphael Varane and summer signing Lisandro Martinez this term, with Harry Maguire sitting on the bench alongside Victor Lindelof.
If Manchester United end up selling Maguire, ten Hag would like an experienced head to come in and help the team out. Financially, the Red Devils could offer de Vrij a satisfactory contract, something the 30-year-old defender is keen to achieve.
Meanwhile, Inter Milan will look to extend his deal and test de Vrij’s resolve. If they feel the player wants to move in another direction, the Serie A giants may consider studying offers from Premier League sides for the 30-year-old defender.
