Transfer News: Chelsea scouting Manchester United target Pau Torres
According to latest news from The Athletic (h/t Express), Chelsea are set to rival Manchester United in the race for the transfer of Villarreal defender Pau Torres.
Torres has emerged as one of the best defenders in La Liga over the past couple of years. A ball-playing centre-back with solid defensive nous, the Spanish international has registered on the radars of a number of top clubs across Europe, including Manchester United.
The Red Devils are on the lookout for a long-term partner for club captain Harry Maguire at the heart of the defence. Victor Lindelof has struggled for consistency despite recent improvements while question marks remain over Eric Bailly’s fitness levels.
So, signing a new centre-back becomes a top priority for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer & co. A number of defenders like Jules Kounde and Raphael Varane have been linked with a summer move to Old Trafford, with Torres said to be one of the top priorities.
The Villarreal centre-half has a release clause of £45m, with the La Liga club also open to player-plus-cash deals in the summer. This makes him an even more attractive prospect for Manchester United.
However, there is the possibility that Chelsea could hijack Manchester United’s pursuit of Torres. The Blues are said to have been heavily scouting the Spanish international and would line up a move if Thomas Tuchel decides to sign a centre-back in the summer.
More Manchester United News:
- Manchester United boost as Pau Torres sets his sights on the Premier League
- Nicky Butt leaves Manchester United amid disagreement with John Murtough
- Transfer News: Liverpool could rival Man United in Jadon Sancho pursuit
The defender is said to be favouring a move to the Premier League which does bode well for Manchester United. But with Chelsea’s potential exit, things could get a bit complicated in his pursuit.
