Manchester United are monitoring the development of Zeno Debast
The question on every Manchester United fan’s mind is simple: why does the defence look so weak? The 2024/25 season only deepened that concern, as United slumped to 15th in the Premier League, their worst finish since 1989/90. Injuries to key players like Lisandro Martinez and Luke Shaw forced Ruben Amorim into constant backline changes, destroying any sense of stability.
Andre Onana looked brilliant at times and shaky at others, while the defenders struggled with communication and positioning. It is clear the squad has not yet adapted to Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 system, and the backline is missing a true leader.
Links to Zeno Debast
According to GIVEMESPORT, United have added Sporting defender Zeno Debast to their long-term list of targets. Amorim knows the 21-year-old Belgian well, having coached him at Sporting, and has seen his potential up close. Debast is strong in the air, composed on the ball, and fits the profile of the wide centre-back role in Amorim’s system.
Manchester United
Should United be prioritizing a move for Debast right now?
But signing him will not be straightforward. Sporting inserted a buyout clause of around £70 million into his contract and are unwilling to negotiate cheaply. Anderlecht, his former club, would also receive a 15% sell-on fee, further complicating matters.
United scouts have been tasked with monitoring Debast’s progress closely ahead of a potential January move. Meanwhile, the club has been trimming the wage bill: sending Antony to Real Betis, Jadon Sancho to Aston Villa, and Rasmus Hojlund to Napoli. Harry Maguire was retained this summer, but interest from Saudi clubs remains.
Is Zeno Debast the right option?
Debast would certainly raise expectations. In Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 system, the wide centre-back must be quick, athletic, and confident in possession, qualities Debast already shows. His passing range, duel strength, and ability to play line-breaking balls make him an ideal fit.
However, the £70m price tag poses a major question. Sporting signed him cheaply, and while his value has soared, United’s recent record with expensive signings suggests caution. A January move may be premature unless the defence continues to collapse. A summer approach could give the club more clarity.
The Belgian’s aggressive style will also be tested in England. He received several yellow cards last season, and the physical demands of the Premier League will require better discipline. Still, if Amorim believes Debast can bring balance and authority to United’s fragile defence, the club must weigh the risk carefully.
For now, patience may be the best approach. But fans simply hope the team can restore defensive strength and leave behind the costly mistakes of recent seasons.