As the January transfer window approaches, Manchester United are expected to focus on strengthening their defensive ranks. Injuries have been a constant problem for Erik Ten Hag’s team, but their defensive frailties have been a growing cause for concern.
United recently conceded three goals to Manchester City and Newcastle, and let in four in the Champions League against Copenhagen.
Most of their defensive players have been on the sidelines due to injury, including midfielder Casemiro, Argentina international Lisandro Martinez and many more, so Ten Hag will no doubt focus on signing a centre back.
Manchester United chasing defenders
The club have their sights set on a number of players, but it’s an ex-Barcelona centre back who’s most likely to end up at Old Trafford.
The Red Devils originally targeted Nice centre-back Jean-Clair Todibo in the summer, but the move did not go ahead due to Harry Maguire’s failed £30m transfer to West Ham.
However, according to The Mirror, the Red Devils may return to the fray for the France international amid their mounting injury worries.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe of the INEOS Group, who owns Nice, could also be involved in the transfer, as he is keen to buy a share in Manchester United.
However, there has recently been a proposal for a “temporary” prohibition on incoming loan signings within clubs with the same owner. If ratified, this rule could become a stumbling block in United’s pursuit of Tobido.
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On the failed summer move, Todibo had said, “I experienced it differently from my previous situations in my career. My thinking was much more in-depth, thoughtful. I didn’t want to make a mistake in my choice. I remained very calm.”