Man Utd dealt blow in attempt to sign €30m centre back

Barcelona have stepped up their pursuit of Sevilla defender Clement Lenglet and are reportedly looking to finalise a deal for the Manchester United target.

Spanish news outlet Don Balon are claiming that Real Madrid’s Champions League success will see Barcelona become more active in the transfer market, and that may start with strengthening the defence – something Jose Mourinho needs to do at United.

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This week, Samuel Umtiti told L’Equipe that he will be staying at Barcelona unless the Catalans chuck him out the door.

But, according to this report, Barcelona are aware of Real Madrid and United’s interest in Lenglet. They have nothing beyond Gerard Pique and Umtiti, so a centre back ought to be considered a requirement this summer.

Lenglet has built a reputation for himself in La Liga since joining Sevilla over a year ago, hence interest from Europe’s biggest clubs.

United fans will be wary of going into another season with Phil Jones and Chris Smalling, both who need to be offloaded, with Eric Bailly deserving of a place in the back four, although in need of a world-class partner. Lenglet reportedly has a €30 million buyout clause which is well within United’s budget.

The report suggests Barcelona are near an agreement with Sevilla and the player. A deal could be announced by the end of the week.

Watch this space.

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