Transfer News: Manchester United keen on a centre-back in January amid recent struggles of Harry Maguire
According to transfer news on The Mirror, Manchester United are eager on signing a centre-back in January amid the recent shortcomings of Harry Maguire.
The 28-year-old star arrived from Leicester City on a mammoth deal worth £80million in 2019. He has looked assured at the back in the past two seasons, but things have slightly changed this season. Since returning from the European Championship, Maguire has looked off the paces.
Victor Lindelof looked the more calming influence at the start of the season when the pair partnered up. Later, Raphael Varane became the centre of attention after he completed his move from Real Madrid. The Englishman also picked up an injury in late September, which did not help his case.
Although he was back into action after just 3 weeks, he did not look confident. He was at fault for three goals against Leicester City, and his shambolic performances continued against Liverpool, Atalanta, and Man City.
To add to the troubles at the back, Raphael Varane suffered an injury at the start of November, ruling him out for an entire month. Thus, United are now planning on signing a centre-back in January.
Sevilla star Jules Kounde is top of the priority list in this area. The French defender has been sensational for the La Liga club in recent seasons and was targeted by Chelsea in the summer until talks broke down between the two clubs.
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The Spanish outfit is concerned that the Red Devils will trigger the 22-year-old’s £68million release clause in January, according to AS (h/t The Mirror).
Thus, after suffering a disastrous start to the season, mid-season signings could be the need of the hour. Moreover, an extra centre-back shall also allow Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to experiment with a four or a five-man backline with a lot of flexibility. All in all, the addition of a defender in January would be the right decision.