Roland Cutinho
Manchester United planning to solve defensive crisis by signing Atletico Madrid star Jose Maria Gimenez
According to Spanish outlet Fichajes (h/t the Manchester Evening News), Manchester United are interested in signing Atletico Madrid star centre-back Jose Maria Gimenez in the upcoming January transfer window.
It has been stated that the 28-year-old is open to the possibility of leaving Wanda Metropolitano due to his struggle to secure a regular spot in the starting lineup under manager Diego Simeone this season.
Although Gimenez has been a pivotal figure for Atletico since his transfer from Uruguayan club Danubio FC, he has seen a decline in his playing time recently due to a series of injuries.
In the current season, the Uruguayan has only made one appearance for the two-time La Liga champions, which was a brief 29-minute cameo during a 0-3 loss to Valencia.
With just two years left on the defender’s current contract, Atletico might consider selling him next year to prevent him from leaving on a free transfer when his contract expires in June 2025.
However, Man United may need to make a lucrative offer to convince the Spanish side to let him go, as other clubs like Chelsea and Inter Milan are also interested in the defender.
Despite his reduced role in Simeone’s lineup, Gimenez has played a crucial part in Atletico’s success over the past ten years.
During his time in Madrid, he has secured two La Liga titles, a UEFA Super Cup, a Spanish Super Cup, and the Europa League in 2018.
Aside from improving his skills, bringing in Gimenez could significantly bolster United’s defensive options, especially given the injury susceptibility of first-choice centre-back Raphael Varane and the uncertainty surrounding the future of Harry Maguire.
Also, Luke Shaw’s injury concerns this season have shortened the options available at the manager’s disposal.
While the South American star is viewed as a top defensive target, the Red Devils should have a close look at how he fares this season.
Keeping track of his injury record is crucial since the club can’t afford to splash a huge sum on a player who is close to turning 30 and is missing games due to fitness issues.
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It would be rather beneficial if the English giants planned to sign a young centre-back. Ten Hag’s team needs fresh, hungry players who can play regularly and solve the defensive crisis currently lingering in the squad.
