Pranav Nair
Manchester United given Pau Torres boost as Real Madrid refuse to pay defender’s release clause
According to Spanish Daily AS (h/t Inside Futbol), Manchester United have been given a boost in their pursuit of Villarreal defender Pau Torres.
The Red Devils are keen to sign a defender in the summer and had been linked with the Spanish international.
Real Madrid are also in the market for a centre-back and was keeping tabs on Torres. With the futures of both Sergio Ramos and Raphael Varane unclear, reinforcing the position could be a priority for Los Blancos.
The financial impact of the coronavirus has seen even Real Madrid struggle for funds. This has seen them refuse to pay the player’s €50m buy-out clause.
The Spanish giants are also unsure if Torres has it in him to step up and perform at a higher level. The expectations of playing for a club such as Real is different from Villarreal.
Any hopes of a deal hinge on the Yellow Submarines willing to lower their asking price. But they are financially secure and have no reason to do that.
This could pave the way for United to make their move if they wish to. The 24-year-old came through the ranks at the Estadio de La Ceramica and is an established member of the starting XI.
One of the best young defenders in La Liga, Torres has excellent potential that could see him emerge as a leading star in the years to come. He also boasts an impressive injury record and has so far missed just five games in his career.
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Torres has a contract with Villarreal until the summer of 2024. This will give the Spanish side any advantage when it comes to negotiations.
It is clear that United’s defence will be a major factor in them falling short of the Premier League title this year. With our Achilles heel all but revealed, bringing in reinforcements next summer is a must.
