Manchester United’s need for defensive reinforcements is pretty clear to see after the season they just had. The Red Devils have conceded 84 goals across all competitions, the most in over 60 years.
Raphael Varane has already announced that he will be leaving once the season concludes and Jonny Evans could join him as his deal also ends in June.
Keeping in mind Profit and Sustainability rules, the club will need to balance their books to steer clear of trouble and both Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof have been linked with exits this summer.
INEOS could be forced to bring in more than one centre-back to partner Lisandro Martinez next season but they will have to be smart about how much they can spend and cannot afford to go all gung-ho with their recruitment.
CB search
Fulham centre-back Tosin Adarabioyo is available on a free as his contract with the Cottagers ends in June with new technical director Jason Wilcox keen to bring the stopper to Old Trafford.
The duo had worked together during their time at the Manchester City academy but despite the 26-year-old’s inclination to join the 20-time English league champions, the uncertainty surrounding the managerial position at the club means the deal has stalled.
Erik ten Hag’s position is far from secure with the FA Cup final likely to determine whether the Dutchman continues at the helm or is forced to leave.
So far the official line from INEOS is that a concrete decision is yet to be taken and this uncertainty is disrupting United’s plans in the market.
EtH dilemma could cost United
The club will not sign a player that the manager does not want and therefore, any potential business dealings will have to wait till an official confirmation.
The Fulham star’s strong showings at the heart of defence has generated plenty of interest from fellow top-flight teams with Newcastle United among the suitors.
HITC have now revealed that the Magpies could now take a decisive lead in the race with Sir Jim Ratcliffe dilly-dallying over a decision. Eddie Howe has reportedly offered a clear plan to the former City star.
Newcastle take the lead
“The club is making moves in the transfer market including their move for Fulham star Adarabioyo – with United’s new technical director Jason Wilcox trying to persuade him to follow him to Old Trafford.”
“Whilst the Manchester-born stopper is keen on a move to United, the major issue – and one that means the 26-year-old can’t yet commit to the club – is that they are unable to confirm to him who his potential boss would be next season.”
“Because of this, HITC can confirm that United’s move for Adarabioyo has indeed stalled because of the uncertainty over who will be in charge next season.”
“That does leave Newcastle in pole position for the player – as they drive home to the player the fact that they will give him the chance to start next season.”
The club could rue their mistake if they allow such smart deals to elude their grasp. It will be intriguing to see how long INEOS take to bring order to the club and when they really kickstart transfer proceedings.
Want to be the first to hear breaking Man United news? For carefully selected, crucial updates, join our WhatsApp channel: https://bit.ly/United-Breaking-News.
