Pranav Nair
Ed Woodward has no plans to sign a centre-back for Manchester United this summer
According to The Athletic, Manchester United will not focus on bringing in a centre-back this summer.
The Red Devils went big last summer when they paid a world-record fee to bring in Harry Maguire. While the Englishman has shored up the backline, the absence of a reliable defensive partner remains a concern.
This was laid bare on Saturday when Crystal palace put us to the sword at Old Trafford. Maguire and Victor Lindelof came in for much criticism as the Eagles cut us open far too easily.
There are no dearth of centre-backs at the club right now. However, dependable ones are at a premium. The Red Devils currently have the likes of Eric Bailly, Phil Jones, Chris Smalling, Marcos Rojo, Axel Tuanzebe and Teden Mengi.
While Bailly is perpetually injured, the likes of Smalling and Rojo could be on their way out. Tuanzebe has just recently returned from injury while Mengi is still inexperienced to be relied upon consistently.
According to the report, the Red Devils do not see central defence as a priority and remain adamant about signing a winger. Borussia Dortmund star Jadon Sancho remains the club’s top choice.
Luxury over necessity?
While adding the 20-year-old Sancho will give our attack a much-needed boost, it does little to balance our team. It does not address what is a key weakness that has now been laid open for all to see.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is however happy with the options at his disposal and could hand Mengi his first senior start in the Carabao Cup this week. (h/t The Express)
More Manchester United News
- Luke Shaw admits Manchester United need to strengthen squad
- Valencia pushing to sign Sergio Romero from Manchester United
- Borussia Dortmund pondering over increasing Jadon Sancho asking price
While we would welcome the signing of Sancho, it is akin to supplying a hospital with a Mercedes rather than an ambulance. Looks flashy but does little to address what is needed.
With the window set to close on October 5, time is running out for United to get their business done.
