Manchester United have been looking to bring in defensive reinforcements to bolster their squad as Erik ten Hag looks to strengthen his back line, which has seen ample of changes in the past summer. 

Highly rated centre-back prospect Leny Yoro arrived at Old Trafford as the Premier League giants beat Real Madrid to his signatures, while Dutch defender De Ligt also moved across borders. The aforementioned duo, alongside Harry Maguire, are tasked with filling the two central defensive roles at the moment, but Ten Hag wants more quality in the position.

Leverkusen face losing Tah to English rivals

Manchester United have been looking to pursue a transfer for Bayer Leverkusen defender Jonathan Tah, who remains keen on securing a move to the English top tier, per SPORT. The 28-year-old only has one year remaining on his contract with current employers and has no intention to put pen to paper on a new one. This means that the 2024/25 campaign would well be his final season with the German champions.

The highly sought-after CB spoke about his desire to move on from Leverkusen as he seeks fresh challenges in his career. Tah, speaking to the media following Germany’s 5-0 win over Hungary last weekend, said:

“No, my decision is as clear as before. I will not renew my contract for professional reasons.

“I still have a contract until 2025 and until then I will give everything for Leverkusen. A football career is short and that is why I have always had the idea of ​​making the most of it. I simply want to exploit the potential that exists in my career. And in the summer I had the feeling that now is the time to look at something new, right now, after such a successful season.”

German publication Sport Bild suggests that Xabi Alonso’s side will launch one more bid to secure Tah’s new contract; however, Leverkusen are increasingly growing to accept that the German international may leave next summer.

Tah came close to a Bayern Munich switch last summer, albeit no move was concluded despite extensive links. 

Will Ten Hag outsmart Chelsea and Liverpool for Tah?

Now, aiding his dream to move to the Premier League, multiple English clubs have expressed interest in his services. The likes of Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur, and Liverpool are interested in signing the 28-year-old defender, alongside the Manchester Reds.

It will be interesting to see where this transfer link takes Tah; however, one thing is given: the German international will certainly add quality and depth at Old Trafford. Would you take him on a free transfer next summer? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!