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Manchester United, after securing the €62 million signing of Leny Yoro from Lille earlier in the transfer window, find themselves in a precarious position as they contend with the young defender’s long-term injury.
Yoro, who was expected to be a key part of Erik ten Hag’s plans, will be sidelined for over three months, forcing United to reconsider their defensive options as the new season looms.
In response to Yoro’s injury, United are now more keen than ever to bring in another centre-back to bolster their defensive line.
Erik ten Hag has identified Bayern Munich’s Matthijs de Ligt as a prime target, but negotiations have hit a snag.
Bayern Munich remains firm on their €50 million asking price, a figure United are reluctant to meet at this stage of the transfer window.
As United’s pursuit of de Ligt stalls, the club is exploring other potential signings to address their defensive needs.
One name that has emerged as a serious option for a while is Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite.
Despite Everton’s steep valuation of the young defender, United have not given up hope of securing his services.
According to the latest reports relayed by centredevils, citing The Sun, United are preparing to launch a fresh bid for Branthwaite as they seek to strengthen their backline.
United initiate contact with free agent, Mario Hermoso
In addition to Branthwaite, another potential solution has surfaced in the form of Mario Hermoso.
The former Atletico Madrid defender, who is available on a free transfer this summer, has reportedly caught the attention of Manchester United.
According to Spanish outlet El Sevillista, the Red Devils have initiated contact with Hermoso’s representatives to explore the possibility of a deal.
The report states negotiations between United and Hermoso’s camp are in the early stages, with both parties assessing the feasibility of a potential move.
The 29-year-old left Atletico Madrid at the end of last season after his contract expired and is currently seeking a three-year deal worth €6 million per season, as per the report.
Mario Hermoso has attracted interest from other clubs, but United’s involvement could see him make a return to the Premier League.
As Manchester United navigate the complexities of the transfer market, the club remains determined to secure the right defensive reinforcements before the window closes.
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