Fabrizio Romano has explained what he’s heard about rumours linking Real Madrid legend Sergio Ramos with a shock move to Manchester United.
Manchester United’s next two areas for improvement have widely been considered the midfield and defensive ranks under Rúben Amorim.
After signing a new goalkeeper and three forwards last summer in Senne Lammens, Benjamin Šeško, Bryan Mbeumo, and Matheus Cunha, the club are moving on to furthering their defensive stability.
The club could see several centre-backs leave this summer, with Harry Maguire’s contract set to expire. At the same time, others feel the likes of Lisandro Martínez and Luke Shaw could come into sale consideration due to consistent fitness problems.
However, there has also been discussion about whether the club should bring in a new left wing-back, with Patrick Chinazaekpere Dorgu and Diogo Dalot failing to impress consistently on that flank.
Romano explains latest on Ramos links
Amid United’s need for new central defenders and Maguire’s expiring contract, rumours have been circulating that the club have been in contact with former Real Madrid defender Sergio Ramos, who is currently playing for Mexican side CF Monterrey.
United have many defenders on their books, but some feel there’s a lack of consistent leadership in the back line, which leads to too many wayward goals conceded and a disorganised defensive shape.
Although Ramos would undoubtedly bring vast experience, the move seems a bit far-fetched, and transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has stated he is unaware of any contact between Ramos and United.
“I’m not aware of any contact between Sergio Ramos and Man United now,” Romano confirmed in his GiveMeSport newsletter.
United have an age gap in their defence
United have a whole host of talented centre-backs at their disposal. Young talents such as Ayden Heaven and Leny Yoro have been brilliant across the last 12 months, while more experienced players, Lisandro Martínez, Matthijs de Ligt, and Shaw, are stunning when on form.
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However, there is a bit of a gap in the ages of their defenders. While Heaven and Yoro, who are 19 and 20, respectively, are brilliant, they are still developing. At the same time, the other three names all have fitness problems.
So, when one or two of United’s more experienced defenders are injured or otherwise unavailable, Amorim has no choice but to move on to his less experienced defenders, and the United head coach is known to be hesitant to give younger stars so much responsibility.
Therefore, it may be better for United to target centre-backs around 23-24 years old who can serve as squad players. This would give the likes of Heaven and Yoro breathing space to develop, while maintaining adequate cover and squad depth.
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