Manchester United eye Ligue 1 star as replacement for West Ham-linked defender

Monaco's Brazilian defender #02 Vanderson (C) fights for the ball with Toulouse's Dutch forward #10 Ibrahim Cissoko (R) during the French L1 football match between Toulouse FC and Monaco AS at the TFC Stadium in Toulouse, southwestern France, on December 20, 2023. (Photo by Valentine CHAPUIS / AFP)

Finding a replacement for Aaron Wan-Bissaka a hurdle Manchester United may have to face this summer, although finding a buyer for the right-back might be a bigger challenge.

According to Sky Sports, United have identified Monaco full-back Vanderson as a potential replacement for Wan-Bissaka.

The aforementioned English defender has a year remaining on his contract at Old Trafford. To make matters worse, he is considered surplus to requirements as he sits behind Diogo Dalot in the right-back pecking order.

Vanderson won’t be the only right-back linked with a move to Old Trafford, if Wan-Bissaka departs for pastures new this summer.

Talks took place between Wan-Bissaka’s entourage and West Ham, but the Hammers have yet to make a formal offer for the 26-year-old.

United are believed to have a shortlist of right-back containing more options than AS Monaco’s Vanderson. It includes Bayer Leverkusen’s Jeremie Frimpong, who won the Bundesliga under Xavi Alonso last season, and Bayern Munich’s 26-year-old Morocco international Noussair Mazraoui.

Vanderson impressed last season in Ligue 1, scoring three goals in 23 appearances across all competitions as Monaco came second in the French top flight. His form has prompted interest from teams across Europe, with Tottenham believed to be keeping an eye on his situation.

After developing through the Gremio academy, Vanderson moved to Europe in 2020 when he signed for Monaco in an €11m deal. Vanderson has since become one of the most dynamic players in Ligue 1.

The 23-year-old has made 84 appearances for Monaco and it could be the perfect time for the Brazilian to step up and join one of the biggest clubs in the world.

Subscribe to the Stretty News podcast Strettycast for weekly episodes on Manchester United. You can also sign up to the ad-free Stretty Newsletter. Get the Stretty News verdict on all matters Manchester United.