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Manchester United have reportedly set their sights on Borussia Monchengladbach’s Ko Itakura, a 26-year-old centre-back.
Itakura, who moved to Gladbach from Manchester City in 2022, has drawn attention from several Premier League clubs thanks to his impressive performances.
According to FootballTransfers via CaughtOffside, not only Manchester United but also Liverpool and Tottenham are showing interest in the Japanese defender.
Itakura’s ability to play both as a central defender and a defensive midfielder makes him a valuable asset, and his skills in distribution and versatility are particularly noted.
The report suggests that Gladbach might be willing to let Itakura go for £13m in the summer. United, keen on bolstering their defense, sees Itakura as a potential fit, especially considering his capability to enhance their defensive line and contribute to building plays from the back. At this price, Itakura represents a significant deal, considering his experience and skill level.
United, with their financial capacity, are in a strong position to pursue Itakura’s signature. However, they face stiff competition from both Liverpool and Tottenham.
The club’s uncertainty regarding the future of some of its current defenders, including Raphael Varane and Jonny Evans, has led them to explore various options in the defensive department.
As a Japanese international, Itakura may be enticed by the opportunity to challenge himself in the Premier League. The ultimate decision of his next club remains to be seen as he weighs his options.
