Pranav Nair
Axel Tuanzebe could prove to be Manchester United’s solution in defence
According to the Independent, Ed Woodward could decide against signing a new defender thanks to Axel Tuanzebe.
Having come through the United academy, the 22-year-old made his debut for the first-team in 2017. He has since made 18 appearances for the club.
He is capable of also playing as a right-back and a holding midfielder. Tuanzebe has been compared to Eric Bailly and Javi Martinez.
With Champions League football secured for next season, United are keen to add to their squad this summer. One of the key positions that need to be filled is a dependable partner for Harry Maguire.
United have the second-best defence in the league this season. However, our defending at times has been less than convincing. Victor Lindelof has been Maguire’s preferred partner this season. He has shown himself to be inconsistent over the course of a season.
This has seen United linked to the likes of Kalidou Koulibaly, Nathan Ake, Tyrone Mings and Alessio Romagnoli. According to the report, United could opt to give Tuanzebe more game time to prove his worth next season.
Tuanzebe started just two Premier League games under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer this season. He has struggled with injuries this campaign after enjoying an excellent loan spell at Aston Villa last season.
United are big fans of the player and believe he has a future at the club. A number of academy youngsters have made their name at the club in recent times.
Mason Greenwood has enjoyed an excellent breakout season at Old Trafford. It remains to be seen if Tuanzebe will join that list.
More Manchester United News
- Barcelona are interested in Diogo Dalot
- Victor Lindelof aims for Europa League glory with Manchester United
- Manchester United risk a burnout ahead of 2020-21 campaign due to European commitments
If Tuanzebe can fulfil his potential, it should free up funds intended for a defender this summer. The club is keen on bringing in Jack Grealish and Jadon Sancho.
Neither of the players is expected to come cheap. Tuanzebe could very well hold the key in their pursuit.
