Manchester United are eyeing up a summer move to bolster their defensive options this summer, according to a report by Fussball Daten.
The Red Devils have made strengthening their midfield the priority this summer, with deals for Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans already completed, while a left-back and left-winger are also expected to be targeted as the window progresses alongside a third central midfielder.
But with Harry Maguire entering the final year of his contract, Matthijs De Ligt still recovering from back surgery, and Lisandro Martinez picking up a thigh injury during the World Cup final, the club are now eyeing potential reinforcements at centre-back.
Man Utd Eyeing Anton Deal
Waldemar Anton
According to a report, Man Utd are eyeing up a move to sign Borussia Dortmund central defender Waldemar Anton this summer.
Anton, who has been described as 'incredible' by Julian Nagelsmann, was part of the Germany squad at the World Cup this summer as they crashed out at the Round of 32 to Paraguay, but enjoyed a fine campaign with Dortmund in the Bundesliga to earn his spot.
The 30-year-old has now emerged as a target at Old Trafford as they eye up potential reinforcements, and it's claimed that they are ready to match Dortmund's €40m (£34m) asking price to get a deal done.
Dortmund do not want to sell the Germany international; however, his age means they must consider big offers, and United are ready to pay the price to get him to the Premier League.
It's also claimed that United are ready to make a 'lucrative' contract offer to the defender to convince him to make the switch, amid stiff competition from Atletico Madrid and Aston Villa for his signature.
Club staff believe that he has the physical capabilities to adapt to the league quickly, and United are considered to be the favorites to win the race for this deal as things stand, with a substantial budget set aside to bring in a proven leader in defence.
Fees correct prior to summer 2026
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Anton Deal Would Be a Gamble
Manchester United caretaker manager Michael Carrick celebrates Premier League win over Liverpool at Old TraffordChris Radburn via Reuters
Man Utd have plenty of areas of their squad that need strengthening if they plan on being competitive in the Champions League next season, but central defence is probably not one of them at this stage.
Maguire has shown excellent form under Michael Carrick, while De Ligt is due back in September, and Martinez's injury may not be that bad. But even if it is, Carrick must show faith in current options Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven in the meantime, rather than just splashing the cash and blocking their pathway.
While Anton has quality, it's hard to see how he would be anywhere near the team when everyone is fit, and that means the money being considered for him should instead be spent on other areas.
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