Manchester United are interested in signing 23-year-old Toulouse defender Charlie Cresswell in the summer transfer window.
According to a report from TEAMtalk, Leeds United are hoping to bring Charlie Cresswell back to England as well. However, Manchester United are leading the race to sign the 23-year-old Toulouse FC centre-back in the coming months.
The Englishman has done quite well in France, and he has the physicality and technical attributes for Premier League football as well. Cresswell is a young defender with a lot of potential, and he could be a very handy option for Manchester United at the back. Manchester United have been monitoring him over the last few years.
Manchester United would do well to sign Charlie Cresswell
Manchester United need to find a quality long-term replacement for Harry Maguire, even though the veteran centre-back is closing in on signing a new contract. So, Cresswell fits the profile. The 33-year-old has played just 1,200 minutes of league football this season, and he is not getting any younger.
Other players have struggled with fitness issues as well. Lisandro Martinez missed 36 matches last season, and Matthijs de Ligt has missed 19 matches this season. Manchester United clearly need more depth in their defensive unit.
The young English defender will want to compete at a high level, and the opportunity to move to Manchester United will be exciting for him. The Red Devils are one of the biggest clubs in the world, and they are likely to compete in the UEFA Champions League next season. They could provide him with the platform to showcase his qualities at the highest level.
Regular football in England could help him improve further and fulfil his potential. The defender will cost around €25-30 million. Manchester United are one of the wealthiest clubs in the country, and they have the financial resources to get the deal done. If the 23-year-old manages to adapt to English football quickly, the asking price could prove to be a major bargain in future.
Can Leeds United convince Cresswell to return?
Meanwhile, Leeds United are keeping tabs on Charlie Cresswell’s situation as well. The Whites have looked vulnerable at the back this season, and they need to tighten up in that area of the pitch if they want to compete in the Premier League regularly.
Cresswell knows the club, having come through the ranks at Leeds United, and a return to his former club could be exciting for both parties. However, Manchester United will be a more attractive destination, and if there is a concrete proposal from them on the table, the defender is likely to lean towards a move to Old Trafford. Meanwhile, Cresswell has also been linked with Tottenham Hotspur.
