Manchester United look to be focusing most of the transfer business in INEOS’ first summer at the helm of recruitment on overhauling Erik ten Hag‘s defence.
The Red Devils have already sanctioned incomings and outgoings in the defensive department, and more movement is expected before the deadline.
Express Sport explores how the Dutchman’s dream backline for the Premier League opener against Fulham would look.
Diogo Dalot
After establishing himself as Ten Hag’s first-choice right-back last term, Diogo Dalot is primed to play another important role this season.
The 25-year-old made 50 appearances across the 2023/24 campaign – a tally only bettered by goalkeeper Andre Onana’s 51.
Dalot missing just two matches limited Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s game time, and United are willing to cash in on their No. 29 if a suitable offer arrives.
If Wan-Bissaka does depart one year before his contract expiry, expect a replacement to arrive, but Dalot will remain firmly ahead in the pecking order.
Leny Yoro
United sealed an undeniable coup by beating Paris Saint-Germain, Liverpool and Real Madrid to the signing of Leny Yoro.
The 18-year-old’s £52million fee has been questioned by some, given his Lille contract was due to expire next year.
However, he is considered one of the world’s most talented young players and represents a dream replacement for Raphael Varane, who left as a free agent this summer.
Yoro’s price tag suggests that he will be an instant starter, and Ten Hag will hope he can quickly form a formidable partnership with Lisandro Martinez.
Lisandro Martinez
The tenacious Argentine is back to full fitness after missing most of last season through injury troubles, and Ten Hag made no secret of how hard his absence was felt.
Martinez’s influence wasn’t just missed at centre-back, but he is also a capable left-back and could’ve filled in for Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia, who also endured frustrating campaigns.
In an ideal world, INEOS would’ve signed Everton centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite before Yoro. United have seen two bids rejected, the latest worth £50m, and it’s unlikely they will meet his £70m asking price.
But if the Red Devils return to the negotiation table for a third time and find success, INEOS’ priority defensive target could share the workload with Yoro and Martinez.
On top of Varane, Ten Hag has lost Willy Kambwala to Villarreal, which opens space in his squad for Branthwaite. However, one of Harry Maguire or Victor Lindelof may also have to depart before a third attempt.
Luke Shaw
Shaw will be desperate for a more enjoyable season after being limited to just 15 appearances last term, which descended United into a left-back crisis.
The M16 giants are expected to enter the market for a new left-back, with Tyrell Malacia showing no signs that he’s close to a return to fitness after missing 14 months with a knee issue.
But Shaw is bound to remain Ten Hag’s first-choice option if he stays fit, which has been easier said than done throughout his Old Trafford career.
Content Source: www.express.co.uk