Manchester United are targeting a move for Borussia Dortmund defender Manuel Akanji this summer as they look to further bolster their backline.
The Red Devils have endured a torrid season to date, currently challenging for the top-4 in a campaign that promised a title challenge before it kicked off.
Central to their problems has been the defence, with 34 league goals conceded already this campaign, despite the addition of four-times Champions League winner Raphael Varane. Harry Maguire has looked a shadow of the player that performed so well for England at Euro 2020, while Victor Lindelof has been solid if unspectacular.
Meanwhile, Eric Bailly and Phil Jones have been used sparingly amid injury worries for the pair.
In this light, a move for Akanji makes plenty of sense, with the 26-year-old having rejected a new deal with Borussia Dortmund and seemingly surplus to requirements following the addition of Niklas Sule.
Manchester United are pushing to sign Manuel Akanji, as already reported. The Swiss defender (who has rejected a #BVB offer) is @ManUtd fan and dreams of the Prem League. According to Bild Red Devils have made a concrete offer now: 4-y-contract, €15m salary. Price tag: €30m. https://t.co/EZAhM7MZe7
— Patrick Berger (@berger_pj) February 24, 2022
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Where would Akanji fit in?
Should Akanji arrive in Manchester, it would leave two options for any new Manchester United manager. Presumably, the reputation of Raphael Varane would keep him in the side, meaning that Harry Maguire, current Manchester United captain, would be the victim of the Swiss international’s arrival.
Alternatively, it could result in a move to a back three, which Maguire has both played and excelled in while on duty with England previously.
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