Manchester United could prioritise signing a new central defender in the summer window as INEOS have reportedly identified the problem area.
According to Football Insider, Manchester United will focus its efforts in the summer window on signing a new defender. Erik ten Hag’s side have come in for much criticism following another leaky season at the back, which could see the club bring in a new top-rated centre-back.
Manchester United are prioritising a new defender
After 26 games on board, Manchester United have a zero-goal difference, with Erik ten Hag’s side scoring 36 and conceding as many. It is a dreadful record considering the quality they have in their defence, as such a leaky defence is not viable enough to win honours.
Manchester United are now reportedly prioritising signing a new defender in the summer as new stakeholders INEOS would like to begin their era by strengthening a problem area. Ten Hag already has a few names on his shortlist, although there are rumours the Dutchman will have little much say in transfer dealings like he has had over the last two summers.
Matthijs de Ligt remains a target, and such a name could have been pushed by ten Hag, who had worked with the Dutchman before at Ajax. There are others like Jean-Clair Todibo, who has links with INEOS due to their ownership of OGC Nice.
Jules Kounde is also a target, although other reports also name a lot of big-name players who could become a part of ten Hag’s shortlist. Another story insisted Manchester United may spend little money, which might negate the idea of a big-name star coming in. In any case, there will be sales that could boost their transfer kitty heading into the summer.
Manchester United’s defensive clearout
If we focus on central defenders, there are many names currently employed by Manchester United who could exit in the summer. Raphael Varane is a big name who is likely to leave when his contract ends in the summer, as the Red Devils did not trigger the extension clause in the Frenchman’s contract.
There are others like Victor Lindelof, who is linked with AC Milan, while veteran Jonny Evans might quit after his contract ends in the summer. Manchester United may have changed their stance on Harry Maguire, considering he has now become a first-choice operator for ten Hag. In any case, there will be outgoings, and the manager will have plenty of new room to add a new defender or two.
