Manchester United fans storm the Old Trafford Pitch
Manchester United reportedly have a three-man shortlist as candidates to partner Harry Maguire at the heart of the defence. Previously linked with Raphael Varane, the Real Madrid man appears to have fallen out of the Red Devils’ thinking.
According to Sky Sports, United are interested in Juventus’ Cristian Romero, who is their prime target.
Meanwhile, Lille’s Sven Botman and Jules Kounde of Sevilla are also under consideration as United search for a new centre-back.
It is reported that bringing in a new defender is one of their priorities this summer as they attempt to close the gap to recently-crowned champions Manchester City.
Romero, whilst officially a Juventus player, is not set to be in Turin for any amount of time.
He has never appeared for the Old Lady, spending the 2020/21 season on-loan with Serie A rivals Atalanta.
Manchester United have found an alternative to Raphael Varane (Image: GETTY)
The Bergamo outfit have agreed a deal to sign him permanently this summer but could be tempted to move him straight on for a fee at least in the region of £34m according to Sky Sports.
Elsewhere, Kounde and Botman have also forged reputations as two of Europe’s most promising central defenders.
The former has been with Sevilla since a 2019 move from Bordeaux and has impressed greatly in his two seasons at the Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan Stadium.
He has accumulated 86 appearances for the Spanish outfit and played a key role as the club won the UEFA Europa League last season.
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
Juventus' Cristian Moreno is reportedly United's prime centre-back target (Image: GETTY)