The best teams tend to build from the back. That may explain why Manchester United are being linked with an array of defenders this summer.
According to the Manchester Evening News, the Reds are open to signing up to three centre-backs as part of a drastic overhaul of their defence.
United’s defence was one of our biggest concerns last season. It was left depleted due to injuries and Erik ten Hag was unable to settle on a back-four to protect Andre Onana in his first season at the club.
We don’t want a repeat of that next season. Fans want to see better players come in who don’t have dodgy track records for injuries because we’ve relied too much on those players in the past. I must be realistic and accept that not every footballer is like Bruno Fernandes…
Three centre-back upgrades
United have verbally agreed personal terms with Bayern Munich defender Matthijs de Ligt, who is expected to replace Raphael Varane.
The club has also had a bid between €60m and €70m accepted by Lille for teenager Leny Yoro.
However, it is understood that Yoro’s preference is to join Real Madrid.
United have also had two bids rejected by Everton for Jarrad Branthwaite.
United have just three recognised centre-backs for the start of pre-season, while Lisandro Martinez is at Copa America and Jonny Evans remains a free agent.
It remains to be seen if Victor Lindelof and Harry Maguire will be at the club at the start of the season. The latter is out of contract next year but United could extend his deal until 2027.
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