Manchester United are looking to sign a new centre-back in the upcoming summer transfer window in an effort to plug the defensive woes the Red Devils have faced throughout the season.
Manchester Evening News reported United holding discussions with Antonio Rudiger’s representatives. The German is out of the Chelsea contract this summer. However, he doesn’t seem keen on joining the Old Trafford side.
Understandably, Rudiger wants to move to a side that has a chance to compete in the Champions League in the upcoming season. United has been knocked out of the tournament this time by Atletico Madrid, and currently are shy of the top four spots in the Premier League table.
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Although the Ralf Rangnick side has a chance on paper to be in the top four and secure a Champions League spot, Rudiger’s representatives are likely not giving United high chances, since their upcoming fixtures are against Liverpool, Arsenal, and Chelsea.
A large part of United’s straggling form has been due to defensive problems with Harry Maguire having a disastrous time, including a recent gaffe in the fixture against Norwich where he drew blood from teammate Paul Pogba even as a Cristiano Ronaldo hattrick helped the side edge past a snappy Norwich that netted two.
The club is also open to letting Phil Jones and Eric Bailly go, an interest echoed by the players as well.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid transfer Raphael Varane has had some notable appearances but the Frenchman has been plagued by injuries and sicknesses missing fifteen matches. Lindelof, who’s started quite a few games has failed to make his mark.
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United might have their eyes on Pau Torres of Villarreal, as the Red Devils had already considered Torres as an alternative to Varane.
However, not many players might want to make the switch to United at the moment considering the team’s unlikeliness to play the Champions League next season.
