Exclusive: Man United pave the way for blockbuster defender signing

Transfer Correspondent AUTHORITY Former Sky Sports and ESPN FC correspondent who specialises in global recruitment, contract negotiations, and high-velocity transfer breaking news. FOCUS Exclusive reporting, domestic and international transfer markets, and elite-level insights. THE INSIGHT Pete utilises a Global Network of Industry Sources to deliver verified, first-to-market reporting. His “Deep-Lens” analysis connects the dots between boardroom strategy and pitch-level recruitment, providing a level of transfer clarity that goes beyond surface-level rumours.

Published on:

24 Dec 2024, 8:30 am

Man United are lining up another blockbuster defender deal next summer, sources have told Football Insider.

The Red Devils signed Leny Yoro and Matthijs De Ligt in the off-season for big-money fees but are planning another huge signing after Ruben Amorim's arrival as manager.

Amorim has implemented a three centre-back system at Old Trafford and is keen to bring another top defender to the club.

Football Insider revealed on Monday (23 December) that Man United are likely to trigger Harry Maguire’s one-year contract extension option.

United want to safeguard the defender’s value by preventing him from walking away at the end of his contract - which is currently set to expire in June 2025.

Amorim has made Maguire part of the first-team plans once again in the meantime while funds remain tight at Old Trafford.

But it is believed the England international could be sold for a fee next summer as the Portuguese boss and United transfer chiefs line up a big-money deal.

Man United to follow Yoro and De Ligt deals with another big defender signing

Reinforcements will be needed with Jonny Evans and Victor Lindelof both coming towards the end of their contracts with the Red Devils.

Lisandro Martinez, Yoro and De Ligt have been regulars under Amorim with Maguire coming back into the side after recovering from a muscle injury in recent weeks.

Football Insider revealed earlier this month (9 December) that Man United are working under tight financial restrictions and are unlikely to make any permanent transfer moves in January.

But funds are likely to be made available to Amorim next summer when fears over Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) will be alleviated.

His side currently sit 13th in the Premier League table after picking up seven points from their last five top-flight games.

In other news, Marcus Rashford could follow Jadon Sancho – Man United plan revealed.

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