Manchester United are eyeing up a potential free agent at one of Europe’s elite sides as a Harry Maguire replacement next summer.
During the summer transfer window, Manchester United addressed their attacking concerns through the additions of three new forwards.
Aside from the acquisitions of Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and Benjamin Sesko, Ruben Amorim’s side only made one further signing in 23-year-old shot-stopper Senne Lammens.
It was thought that the Reds would potentially look at reinforcing their midfield, and potentially their defence if their budget allowed them, but no transfers came to fruition.
This being said, United are now being rumoured with a move for a potential free agent next summer, who is on his final year in his contract at one of Europe’s biggest sides.
United eye Bayern’s boy
As reported by CF Bayern Insider, Bayern Munich centre-back, Dayot Upamecano, could potentially leave the Bavarian giants next summer when his contract expires.
The French international has been a constant feature in the Bayern side since his arrival in 2021, but could be due to leave if the club doesn’t meet his wage demands.
The report states that there are plenty of sides interested in Upamecano’s services, one of which is Amorim’s Red Devils. United are joined by Real Madrid and PSG.
Given the success of Matthijs De Ligt, who United signed from Bayern, it wouldn’t be a surprise if they were to go back into the market for another one of the Bavarian club’s centre-backs.
Maguire needing replacing
United triggered the one-year extension option in Harry Maguire’s contract, meaning that he is contracted to the club until June 2026, after which he could potentially depart.
If Maguire is to leave next summer, United would be losing a very experienced leader from their defensive department, which would desperately need replacing in some capacity.
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In terms of depth, the central defensive position is probably the Red Devils’ strongest area, but the absence of Maguire would definitely be felt.
Whether United move for Upamecano or not next summer, it is probably fair to expect some degree of movement in the Reds’ defensive department, especially if Maguire is to depart.
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