Manchester United started the new Premier League campaign in the worst possible manner. And the loss to Manchester City has made matters worse.
Ruben Amorim wanted to sign a midfielder. Now, it is quite evident why the Portuguese boss was so adamant about signing a midfielder.
The United boss also wanted to sign a new centre-back. Unfortunately, the Red Devils could not make a move to replace Victor Lindelof or Jonny Evans.
Similarly, Harry Maguire is likely to depart next year, and his exit would leave a sizeable gap at the back. That is why Manchester United are already eyeing a replacement for their former captain.
The Red Devils could face competition from Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain for the player they are trying to sign next summer for free.
Each club is aware that next summer presents a rare opportunity in the market. A proven defender, still in his prime years, could be available without a transfer fee.
According to a Spanish outlet, Manchester United are eyeing a move for Bayern Munich defender Dayot Upamecano as Harry Maguire’s long-term replacement.
Upamecano started at Red Bull Salzburg from where he moved to RB Leipzig. In Germany, the 26-year-old centre-back went on to make more than 150 appearances for Leipzig.
The consistency of the French defender earned him a transfer to Bayern Munich in 2021. Upamecano has also played over 150 matches for the German champions.
Bayern’s coach Vincent Kompany has already expressed his desire to keep him, while sporting director Christoph Freund has spoken publicly about his importance to the squad.
Yet contract talks remain unresolved, and time is running out. From January, he will be free to negotiate a pre-contract with other clubs.
This is why Manchester United are closely watching the situation. If Bayern fail to tie him down, United, Madrid, and PSG will all be ready to move.
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