Manchester United Eyes Defensive and Midfield Reinforcements

Manchester United is actively pursuing potential signings to enhance their defensive and midfield capabilities, targeting Bayern Munich's Noussair Mazraoui and Real Sociedad's Martin Zubimendi. Following the acquisition of young talents Joshua Zirkzee and Leny Yoro, manager Erik ten Hag is now focused on integrating experienced players to improve team balance. Mazraoui, a Moroccan right-back, is seen as a possible replacement for Aaron Wan-Bissaka, who is rumored to be moving to Inter Milan. Reports suggest that United and Bayern have agreed on a transfer fee between £15m and £20m for the 26-year-old. In midfield, United is shifting its focus from Paris Saint-Germain's Manuel Ugarte to Zubimendi, with a reported fee of around £50m being discussed. Although Ugarte remains on the radar, United has yet to meet Real Sociedad's £60m valuation for the Uruguayan. Ten Hag has already invested up to £59m in Yoro and is prepared to spend similarly on Zubimendi, who has made 144 appearances for Sociedad and recently featured in the Euro 2024 final for Spain. Additionally, United is monitoring Joao Neves, a promising 19-year-old midfielder from Benfica, who is attracting interest from several top clubs, including PSG and Arsenal. However, with a release clause exceeding £100m, his transfer to the Premier League seems uncertain. Youssouf Fofana from AS Monaco is also being considered as a more affordable option, especially with Casemiro's potential departure from Old Trafford this summer, amid interest from AC Milan and West Ham.