Pranav Nair
Manchester United draw up three-man shortlist in centre-back pursuit
According to ESPN, Manchester United have drawn up a three-man shortlist in their pursuit of a centre-back to partner skipper Harry Maguire.
The Red Devils were linked with Bournemouth star Nathan Ake. But with the Dutch star agreeing to join Manchester City, we now have to look elsewhere.
United’s defence has done well this season. Although the improvement is clear, there is scope for so much more. The likes of Maguire and Victor Lindelof, despite their good showings, lack focus at times that could prove costly.
The three players on United’s list include Napoli star Kalidou Koulibaly, Aston Villa ace Tyrone Mings and AC Milan defender Alessio Romagnoli.
Koulibaly is one of the best defenders in the world. However, Napoli are tough customers to deal with, making a deal difficult. Already 29, he is also unlikely to be a long-term option.
Koulibaly is also chased by City. The Senegalese will take a decision on his future at the end of the season.
Mings was financially a much more viable option. However, that depended on Villa getting relegated. With them surviving, a deal may not be so straightforward anymore.
Romagnoli is a dependable player who could be on the move this summer. With AC Milan missing out on Champions League qualification, United could swoop in for the Italian.
The biggest name on United’s shortlist is Koulibaly, although he is a right-footed player who plays as a left-sided central defender. Solskjaer, on the other hand, is keen to bring in a left-footed player.
If he is willing to drop his demand, Koulibaly has all the makings of a game-changing signing.
More Manchester United News
- Raul Jimenez closes in on Manchester United move
- Manchester United standing firm on Chris Smalling valuation
- Borussia Dortmund ready to accept Manchester United offer for Jadon Sancho
With Champions League football back on the table, United will approach this summer window from a position of strength. With rivals such as Chelsea strengthening, we must act with haste to address the deficiencies in our squad.
