Manchester United showcased yet another masterclass in how not to defend as they conceded four goals to Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on Monday.
The humbling in South London took Man United’s goal conceded tally to 81 across all competitions — their most since the 1976/77 season, when there were four more league games per season.
Regardless of such dire performances, manager Erik ten Hag still has his supporters among the fanbase, with many debating that the Dutch coach is powerless in the face of an astronomical amount of injuries, especially in defense.
Against Palace, he partnered Jonny Evans with midfielder Casemiro at the heart of his defense. The former was not even fully fit to start the game.
As such, whether Ten Hag remains United’s manager or not, there is one issue for which there is no debate: the Red Devils desperately need a new center-back or two.
With INEOS being forced to work with a limited budget due to financial fair play regulations this summer, The Times say they are looking at a few players with one year left on their contract as well as free agents.
One of the names on their list is Fulham center-back Tosin Adarabioyo. The former Manchester City academy defender has established himself at Fulham, impressing fans and pundits alike with his composed performances.
The 26-year-old is set to depart Craven Cottage this summer upon the end of his contract. Naturally, a number of clubs, including United and Tottenham Hotspur, are monitoring Adarabioyo.
In that regard, the Old Trafford outfit have been handed a huge boost if a report from transfer expert Paul O Keefe is to be believed.
Tosin Adarabioyo has turned down an offer from Tottenham. Whether Tottenham return remains to be seen.
— Paul O Keefe (@pokeefe1) May 7, 2024
Keefe claims the English defender has turned down an offer from Spurs. Further, at this stage, it remains unclear if the North London outfit will return with an improved offer.
If United are really keen on strengthening their backline without spending big, they should take advantage of this situation and table their offer before Adarabioyo picks another club.
Interestingly, United may also use Jason Wilcox’s past relationship with Adarabioyo in their favor. The club’s new technical director oversaw the player’s development during his time as City’s head of academy.
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