Manchester United are now preparing a significant offer for a "rapid" new player, who has been demanded by Ruben Amorim ahead of the January transfer window.
Amorim looking to sign new centre-back who could partner Maguire
In the wake of Harry Maguire scoring a dramatic late winner against Liverpool at Anfield, Nicky Butt has suggested Man United have made a mistake by not bringing in a top centre-back partner for the England international.
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The former midfielder said: "Do you know what you were saying about never letting the club down, I think it’s the other way around, I think the club has let him down, if I’m honest.
"If you look at his best games they have always been for England, he’s had John Stones next to him, it’s like a Yin and Yang.
"With Harry, he’s going to that club, and he’s never had a player next to him who can compliment him ever..."
In fairness, Matthijs De Ligt has arguably improved considerably this season, but Amorim is a little light on top-quality options, with Paul Scholes recently criticising Luke Shaw, who started at left centre-back against Liverpool.
As such, bringing in a new centre-back in the January transfer window could be a savvy move, and Amorim has now demanded the signing of Sporting CP star Ousmane Diomande, with the United boss keen to secure a reunion.
That is according to a report from Spain, which also states Man United are now preparing a significant offer for the centre-back, who is valued at around €50m (£43m), which would be an affordable fee.
Amorim believes the Sporting CP defender would be an ideal fit in his three-at-the-back system, and he has now been identified as a key target for the winter transfer window.
"Rapid" Diomande is a Gabriel and Saliba "hybrid"
William Saliba and Gabriel have formed a formidable partnership at Arsenal, with the Gunners conceding just three Premier League goals this season, and both centre-backs rank among the best in world football.
As such, it should excite United fans to hear the Sporting star has been described as a "hybrid" between the two Arsenal defenders by scout Ben Mattinson, while journalist Zach Lowy has also been left very impressed.
Moreover, the youngster is very assured in possession of the ball, placing in the top 1% of centre-backs for his pass-completion rate per 90 over the past year.
With Man United clearly in need of a new centre-back, Diomande could be the ideal addition to the squad, and his previous experience working with Amorim is an added bonus.