Manchester United are eyeing a move to rebuild their squad this summer, and while midfield is the priority, there is also talks ongoing about bringing in a new central defender.
Harry Maguire is set to sign a new one-year deal at the club with the option of an extra 12 months, while Lisandro Martinez is entering the final two years of his deal at Old Trafford, Matthijs De Ligt has been dealing with injury issues, and Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven are still young and trying to gain experience.
With the club switching back to a back four system following the arrival of Michael Carrick to replace Ruben Amorim, the Red Devils are looking at potential ways to strengthen the squad, and a Ligue 1 star has emerged as a genuine target.
Man Utd Eyeing Charlie Cresswell Move
Charlie Cresswell
According to a report by TEAMtalk, Man Utd are showing interest in a move for Toulouse star Charlie Cresswell, and they are currently the frontrunners for his signature.
The former Leeds academy graduate, who stands at 6ft 2 and has been described as a 'monster', has been exceptional for the Ligue 1 side since joining two seasons ago and has been strongly linked with a return to England, with West Ham and Newcastle having shown an interest during the January window.
United have not yet given the green light for a move formally go ahead, but it's understood that Cresswell would 'jump at the chance' to move to Old Trafford, despite his allegiances to Leeds.
Jason Wilcox is known to be a big fan of the 23-year-old, and should the club decide to make the move for a centre-back, then Cresswell is clearly one to keep a close eye on.
Cresswell a Long-Term Maguire Replacement?
harry maguire
Maguire's future at the club looked bleak just a few months ago, but he has battled back into the starting lineup under Carrick and a new contract is now set to be sealed.
But considering he is now 33-years-old, a long-term succession plan should be in place and Cresswell could fit the bill perfectly.
GIVEMESPORT asked ChatGPT to compare Cresswell and Maguire's style of play, and this was its response:
Harry Maguire: Ball-carrying CB, strong aerially, thrives in deep blocks, progressive passer but can struggle vs pace.
Charlie Cresswell: Aggressive, front-foot defender, dominant in duels, simpler in possession, more mobile but less refined build-up play.