Manchester United will not prioritize signing a defender this summer
According to the Daily Mail (h/t Metro), Manchester United will put off signing a central defender until 2021.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was keen to bring in a centre-back this summer. However, he has now decided to delay the move in order to focus on more pressing concerns.
The club’s major priority this summer was Jadon Sancho. However, Borussia Dortmund’s refusal to reduce their asking price has seen negotiations reach a stalemate.
The focus now shifts to bringing in a left-back. United were heavily linked with a move for Sergio Reguilon, who has since agreed to join Tottenham Hotspur.
This hunt for a left-back has seen Solskjaer put off signing a central defender by a year.
RB Leipzig star Dayot Upamecano was considered as a potential partner for skipper Harry Maguire. But the Germans have placed an asking price upwards of £60million, which United were unwilling to pay.
With Chris Smalling, Marcos Rojo and Phil Jones all likely to be sold,we could find ourselves short at the back over the course of the season.
Victor Lindelof was the preferred parther for Maguire last season. While the Swede is competent, his inconsistency remains a pressing concern.
Eric Bailly is a solid defender, but his constant injuries make him a thoroughly unreliable candidate to see out a busy season.
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United could look to promote from within their ranks. According to the report, Axel Tuanzebe could be given an opportunity to extend his claim to partner Maguire.
The Red Devils struggled with fatigue towards the end of last season. With just Donny van de Beek coming in so far this summer, the lack of strength in depth has not been addressed.
United have until October 5 to bring in new players. If we fail to do, the team could be in for a long and tiring season.