Manchester United are eyeing a move to sign Elche centre-back David Affengruber, and he could be the ideal upgrade on Ayden Heaven at the back.
After an inconsistent start to the 2025/2026 season in Ruben Amorim's first full campaign in charge, United could look to bring in reinforcements during the upcoming transfer window. The Red Devils currently sit in sixth position in the Premier League table, but they've suffered some disappointing results and performances along the way.
During the summer transfer window, United predominantly focused their recruitment on bringing in new attacking options, with Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha, and Benjamin Sesko arriving through the door. Senne Lammens was also signed to improve the goalkeeper situation, and now attention could turn to other positions in 2026.
Man Utd Eyeing David Affengruber, An Upgrade on Heaven
David Affengruber
According to a report from Caught Offside, Manchester United are keeping a close eye on Elche centre-back Affengruber after a strong season in La Liga. The Red Devils have had scouts present at multiple Elche games throughout the season, with the 24-year-old, described as 'exceptional', producing 'highly positive' scouting reports.
Affengruber is the ideal mix of a player who is still young and yet to reach his full potential, while also being capable of making an immediate impact. Heaven, who is starting for United at the moment, is more of a player with a long-term view in mind, and Affengruber would undoubtedly be an upgrade on him in terms of the here and now.
Heaven struggled immensely during United's last game, where Ruben Amorim's men conceded four goals at home to Bournemouth. Heaven looked lost in the middle of the defence, and it's an area of the pitch that the Red Devils need to reinforce when the January transfer window is open.
Midfield a More Pressing Issue for Man Utd
Kobbie Mainoo
It's well-documented that United are likely to be in the market for a new midfielder in 2026. It's understandably a priority given their current options, and the fact that Ruben Amorim clearly doesn't trust Kobbie Mainoo. The England international is likely to seek a move in January if he continues to play a bit-part role, especially with the World Cup coming next year.
Mainoo might be the answer to United's midfield issues, but Amorim certainly doesn't see it that way, so a new addition in the middle of the park will be necessary in 2026. The Red Devils will be eyeing moves to strengthen in other areas of the pitch next year, but there's no doubt that adding a new midfielder to the squad will be the priority move.