Manchester United have entered the race to sign a "silky" defender, who is now being targeted by a number of Europe's top clubs.
Man Utd eyeing new defender despite Maguire signing new deal
Harry Maguire's career at Man United hasn't always been plain sailing, but he is experiencing a resurgence under Michael Carrick, with the centre-back starting the last ten Premier League matches.
Carrick has clearly been impressed by the Englishman's performances, having suggested Thomas Tuchel should take him to the World Cup this summer, alongside Luke Shaw and Kobbie Mainoo.
mainoo-man-utd
Speaking last month, the United boss said: "I'd love to see them picked for this one and for the summer. I don't have any influence on that, but the way they're playing, they have put themselves in the picture and given themselves a chance.
"They are playing well enough to warrant a place."
With Maguire cementing himself as a key player, he has now put pen to paper on a new contract, which extends his stay at Old Trafford until June 2027, including an option for an extra year.
However, INEOS remain keen on bringing in additional options at the heart of defence, having recently entered the frame to sign a Bundesliga star.
"Silky defender" now in Man Utd's sights
According to a report from Sky Sports, Man United have now surged into the race to sign Werder Bremen defender Karim Coulibaly, who is wanted all over Europe, with Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain, Napoli, Newcastle United and Chelsea also keen.
The Blues' interest is the most advanced, having already made contact about a deal, but the interested sides will have to spend big to get a deal over the line, with the Bundesliga side planning to hold out for up to €50m (£44m).
That would be a massive sum to pay for a player who is still just 18-years-old, but he has impressed in the Bundesliga this season, being lauded as "silky" by analyst Spencer Mossman, while Bence Bocsak believes the teenager is destined to play for one of Europe's top clubs.
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INEOS mean business.
The journalist said: "Karim Coulibaly has everything to play for one of the best clubs in Europe’s top five leagues.
"He commands the air inside his own box. Regularly clears crosses/wins aerial duels with ease. Great at making interceptions and anticipating where the ball is going to go."
The youngster has already made 22 senior appearances for Werder Bremen, netting his first goal for the German side in a 3-3 draw against Bayer Leverkusen earlier this season.
Having already started to make a name for himself in the Bundesliga, Coulibaly may be ready to make the jump to the Premier League before too long, and Old Trafford should be an attractive destination this summer if Man United get over the line in the race for the Champions League.