Manchester United are eyeing a move for Bayer Leverkusen star Edmond Tapsoba amid Raphael Varane injury concerns
Manchester United are eyeing a move for Bayer Leverkusen defender Edmond Tapsoba due to concerns about Raphael Varane’s injuries, according to the Manchester Evening News.
During the summer, the Red Devils had a strong interest in acquiring a new centre-back. In August, Benjamin Pavard was their primary target, but a deal failed to materialise after Harry Maguire chose to stay at the club.
It is uncertain whether United will bolster their centre-back options during the January transfer window due to Financial Fair Play (FFP) issues. However, there is a possibility of an important investment in that position at the end of the season.
It is now said that the English giants are looking to sign an agile centre-back, such as Tapsoba, particularly in light of Varane’s susceptibility to injuries and the fact that Victor Lindelof has entered the last year of his contract.
Man United have the choice to extend Lindelof’s contract for an additional year, but they may need to find other options if he doesn’t commit to a new contract.
At the beginning of the summer transfer window, Erik ten Hag’s side was actively searching for a new defender to lead their back line. Initially, they had their sights on former Napoli star Kim Min-jae, who ultimately joined Bayern Munich.
As an alternative to the South Korean, Axel Disasi was later considered, but Chelsea secured his signing, beating out United in the race for his signature.
United had Pavard as their key target in August, but the deal hinged on Maguire’s departure. However, the former captain declined a move to West Ham United.
Currently, it appears unlikely that the club will make significant investments in January due to FFP issues. The situation might change if Maguire decides to seek regular playing time elsewhere.
If not, United will have to wait until the next summer transfer window. Tapsoba recently signed a new contract, but Leverkusen might be open to selling the 24-year-old for a lucrative fee in the future.
The Burkina Faso international is a solid ball-playing centre-back known for his ability to clear the ball effectively. He excels at winning tackles and is a strong presence in aerial situations due to his height. Moreover, he has impressed with his ability to recover possession this season.
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However, his valuation will certainly increase due to his new contract. It is now up to the Red Devils to decide whether to use their funds to sign a quality centre-back or stick with other low-value signings.
In our opinion, the most obvious choice would be to collect funds through player sales and use the sum to sign a solid dependable centre-back who can play a vital role in the club.
