Man United are ready to bid for an Argentina star who Enzo Fernández is reliably believed to want at Chelsea, according to reports.
United's summer rebuild shows no signs of slowing down, with the club continuing to pursue multiple targets despite already strengthening Michael Carrick's squad.
Man-United-Michael-Carrick
The Red Devils have been among the busiest clubs in the market and there remains a belief that further additions will arrive before the transfer window closes.
Following the signing of Atalanta midfielder Ederson, attention has already turned towards what positions United could target next.
Midfield remains one area under consideration.
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While Ederson's arrival has provided Carrick with another powerful option in the centre of the pitch, reports in recent weeks have suggested United are still exploring the possibility of adding further depth and competition in midfield.
talkSPORT's Ben Jacobs recently reported that Mateus Fernandes of West Ham and Brighton's Carlos Baleba are real ones to watch, despite the former set to cost around £85m as things stand (Fabrizio Romano).
West-Ham-Mateus-Fernandes
The club's hierarchy are determined to avoid repeating mistakes from previous windows and are placing a greater emphasis on targeted recruitment.
Defensive reinforcements have also been discussed internally.
Although Carrick inherited a number of experienced centre-backs, injuries and inconsistency exposed weaknesses at various points last season.
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Manchester United have made a move to land a top-level talent ahead of the summer window.
Strengthening the heart of the defence has therefore remained part of the conversation as United continue assessing the market.
That focus may now be becoming clearer.
Man Utd preparing offer for Tottenham star Cristian Romero
According to Argentine journalist Gaston Edul, Man United want Tottenham defender Cristian Romero and are preparing an offer in an attempt to bring the World Cup winner to Old Trafford.
Tottenham's Cristian Romero is sent off
The update is significant.
Romero has long been regarded as one of the Premier League's most aggressive defenders, and called "underrated" by pundits like football analyst Jacob Horsfall.
His combination of physicality, leadership and experience at the highest level has made him one of Tottenham's most important players in recent years.
Spurs-Cristian-Romero
It is easy to see why United would be interested.
It has long been mooted that Romero will leave Spurs this summer, and the ex-Serie A star lost a lot of popularity in the Lilywhites fanbase after news he wouldn't be present for their final day relegation decider against Everton.
That being said, despite also having a questionable disciplinary record, Romero possesses elite defensive qualities and would instantly add experience to United's back line.
cristian-romero-spurs (3)
However, United are not the only club keeping tabs on him.
Chelsea have also been linked with Romero and there appears to be support for such a move from within the Stamford Bridge dressing room.
Reliable Chelsea insider Simon Phillips recently reported that Fernandez would like the Blues to sign his Argentina teammate.
The pair have developed a strong understanding at international level and Fernandez is believed to be keen on seeing Romero join him in west London.
That could create an interesting battle if Tottenham become open to negotiations.
Enzo Fernandez
From United's perspective, landing Romero would represent a major statement of intent. Proven Premier League defenders with international pedigree are rarely available, and the 28-year-old would bring both quality and leadership to Carrick's project.
The challenge, of course, will be convincing Tottenham to sell.
Spurs have little reason to part with one of their most influential players unless a substantial offer arrives. Even then, negotiations between two Premier League rivals are rarely straightforward.
For now, the situation remains at an early stage.
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