Victor Lindelöf has been part of Manchester United’s defensive unit for several years. Since arriving from Benfica in 2017, his presence in the XI has been constant, albeit irregular, depending on coaches, system and defensive partners. With moments of solidity and periods of doubt, the Swede has experienced ups and downs, but he has always maintained his professionalism. This season, while not shining as before, he has delivered when called upon. The board has been in internal talks for months about several contracts that expire in the summer. Lindelöf’s was one of them, and now everything seems clear.
According to [Fabrizio Romano via X](https://x.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1926278045146447939), Lindelöf and Manchester United have decided to part ways after the end of the campaign. The decision came after a meeting this week between the parties. The defender has several offers on the table, mainly from Italian and Spanish clubs.
What impact will Victor Lindelof’s confirmed free transfer departure, as reported by Fabrizio Romano, have on Manchester United’s defensive lineup and transfer strategy?
These proposals have convinced him to step aside and look for a new experience outside England. The Swede will leave as a free agent, which facilitates negotiations with other clubs. Although the name of his possible destination has not been leaked, his profile attracts teams in need of defensive experience.
Lindelöf arrived at United at a time when the club was looking to reshuffle following the departure of Sir Alex Ferguson. He was never the most media-friendly, but he did provide stability in a number of difficult periods. During his best spell, between 2018 and 2021, he became a regular starter under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
He had a good understanding with Harry Maguire when both were fit. Lindelof’s reading of the game and his ability to anticipate action highlighted him more than his physicality. He was not a shouting leader, but one who conveyed calm. His performance dropped when the team lost tactical direction and the pressure increased with new additions.
At his best, Lindelöf was a useful defender, unremarkable but reliable. Now it remains to be seen whether the Swede can find an environment where he can regain confidence and become important again. United, for their part, need to be clearer with their decisions and act more proactively to reinforce their backline for depth in the summer. Fabrizio has confirmed his departure, but the impact of his time at Old Trafford can still be debated.