Manchester United have identified their successor to captain Harry Maguire – and told his club exactly how much they'll pay
(Image credit: Getty)
Manchester United are targeting new defenders – and have identified a player who could replace Harry Maguire.
Outgoing interim manager Ralf Rangnick declared that as many as 10 new stars could be brought to Old Trafford this summer, as the club look to overhaul the squad. This season has seen United's worst-ever Premier League points tally and the Red Devils are in disarray.
Plenty of stars have been linked with moves to the 20-time English champions, as Erik ten Hag settles into the hot seat. With uncertainty over the futures of a number of key stars, however, there could be big moves made in key positions.
(Image credit: Getty)
One such name is Pau Torres, who has been a long-term target for a number of Premier League sides.
Spanish outlet Marca suggests that the Villarreal defender – who has been a stalwart of the backline that reached the Champions League semi-final this season and defeated United on penalties in the Europa League final last campaign – now wants a move away from Spain. Ten Hag's new employers will pay €50 million for player, equivalent to around £40m.
Signing such a centre-back could well spell the end of captain Harry Maguire's time at the club. The England star has had an underwhelming time since returning from Euro 2020 with a knock – and Torres is exactly the profile of leader at the back to replace him.
(Image credit: Getty)
At 25 years old, Torres is primed to be entering his peak as a defender soon. The Spaniard has been a key man under Unai Emery in LaLiga and performed ably in Europe.
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Paired with someone like Jurrien Timber in the back four, United could have a new lease of life defensively – though Dutchman Timber can also play as a right-back if needed. United are reportedly looking to drive a hard bargain regardless of who they target this summer, however, given that they have plenty of positions to upgrade on.
Mark White has been at on FourFourTwo since joining in January 2020, first as a staff writer before becoming content editor in 2023. An encyclopedia of football shirts and boots knowledge – both past and present – Mark has also represented FFT at both FA Cup and League Cup finals (though didn't receive a winners' medal on either occasion) and has written pieces for the mag ranging on subjects from Bobby Robson's season at Barcelona to Robinho's career. He has written cover features for the mag on Mikel Arteta and Martin Odegaard, and is assisted by his cat, Rosie, who has interned for the brand since lockdown.
