Shrishh Attavar
Manchester United keep tabs on Odilon Kossounou of Leverkusen
Manchester United’s quest to bolster their defensive ranks has led them into a heated battle with Tottenham Hotspur for the signature of Bayer Leverkusen’s promising defender Odilon Kossounou. Since assuming the managerial reins at Old Trafford, Erik ten Hag has faced challenges in finding stability in his central defensive pairing.
The Red Devils’ defensive line has endured its fair share of disruptions, with former captain Harry Maguire experiencing a period out of the squad and subsequently reclaiming his place. However, injuries to key players like Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane have further compounded the defensive woes at the club.
Martinez, who had been providing valuable contributions before his injury, is currently sidelined with a knee issue, adding to the injury concerns. Meanwhile, Varane has struggled to maintain consistency due to recurring fitness issues, hindering his availability for selection.
Defensive reinforcements!
In their pursuit of defensive reinforcements, Manchester United have turned their attention to the Bundesliga, with Bayer Leverkusen emerging as a potential talent pool. Reports from SportBILD via Manchester Evening News indicate that the Red Devils are closely monitoring four standout performers from Leverkusen’s roster: Jeremie Frimpong, Exequiel Palacios, Edmond Tapsoba, and of course, Odilon Kossounou.
Among these targets, Kossounou has garnered significant interest from both Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur. The Ivorian defender has impressed with his performances for Leverkusen, showcasing his defensive prowess and tactical acumen at only 23.
With Ten Hag and the recruitment team at Manchester United keeping a keen eye on Kossounou, it underscores the club’s commitment to reinforcing their defensive options. However, they face stiff competition from Tottenham in pursuing the talented centre-back.
Kossounou’s versatility is among the attributes that make him an attractive prospect for Manchester United. We have at times, found ourselves short on depth in the fullback position and in defensive midfield as well. The Ivorian international, apart from his natural central defensive role, is adept at playing as a right-back and a defensive midfielder as well.
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As the transfer saga unfolds, both United and Tottenham will be eager to secure the services of Kossounou, recognizing his potential to bolster their respective backlines. The race for his signature reflects the intense competition prevalent in the transfer market, especially for coveted defensive talents. For the Red Devils, landing Kossounou would represent a significant coup and a step towards shoring up their defensive unit. With the club striving for success on multiple fronts, including domestic competitions and European aspirations, strengthening the defence is paramount to their ambitions.
