Manchester United could add a defender to their first-team squad this summer as part of their gradual rebuild under head coach Ruben Amorim. United have prioritised attacking additions to their side but are still open to defensive reinforcement if the right opportunities arise.
Matheus Cunha officially became the club's first signing of the summer when he completed his move from Wolves a week ago and United are still favourites to win the race for Brentford ace Bryan Mbeumo. Amorim also wants to add a striker to his side with Eintracht Frankfurt forward Hugo Ekitike the latest name linked with an Old Trafford move.
United will lose Jonny Evans and Victor Lindelof as free agents at the end of the month, while Lisandro Martinez is still sidelined following ACL surgery. It means United are limited in their defensive options ahead of the new season, and they could make a signing in the coming months. Here is a look at what their dream defence would look like:
Manchester United could sign a centre-back in the summer transfer window
1. Manchester United could sign a centre-back in the summer transfer window
Manchester United could sign a centre-back in the summer transfer window | line-up builder Photo: line-up builder
Lindelof will leave the club as a free agent at the end of the month after he was not offered a new deal.
2. Victor Lindelof - RELEASED
Lindelof will leave the club as a free agent at the end of the month after he was not offered a new deal. | Manchester United via Getty Images
Mazraoui shone in his debut season and is a valuable option at either wing-back or centre-back.
3. Noussair Mazraoui - KEEP
Mazraoui shone in his debut season and is a valuable option at either wing-back or centre-back. | Getty Images
De Ligt is the long-term choice in central defence and is worth another full season in the line up.
4. Matthijs de Ligt - KEEP
De Ligt is the long-term choice in central defence and is worth another full season in the line up. | Manchester United via Getty Images