Under the tutelage of former manager Jose Mourinho, Manchester United looked vulnerable at the back and they conceded 29 goals in 18 Premier League games during his reign this season. The Portuguese was sacked after his side were battered 3-1 by Liverpool at the Anfield last month.
The arrival of Ole Gunnar Solksjaer as the interim manager at the Old Trafford has certainly brought life back into Manchester United. Undoubtedly, the Red Devils are playing in a better and are more productive under him than they were under Mourinho.
However, Manchester United are in the danger of missing out on a Champions League spot next season. As many as six points separate them from Chelsea, who occupy the fourth position in the Premier League table.
More than anything else, Solksjaer needs to get hold of a world-class central defender as the defence still appears to be a cause of concern for the Red Devils.
Here are three centre-backs Manchester United should look to target this month.
A player with a lot of Premier League experience, Alderweireld would galvanise Manchester United’s defence. The 29-year-old is a big name in the game and is a versatile defender owing to his capability to operate as the centre-back as well as a right-back.
Manchester United have been interested in the Belgian for some time, but a deal has never materialised. Interestingly, Tottenham Hotspur have extended his contract but have inserted a release clause of £25m, which has reportedly put his admirers on red alert.
Napoli’s central defender Kalidou Koulibaly is one of the best in his position. He has incredible pace and athleticism, and strong physicality would make him an ideal signing for United.
After 18 Serie A appearances this season, the 27-year-old has mustered 1.9 tackles, 1.4 interceptions and 4.1 clearances per game on an average.
Like Alderweireld, Manchester United have been linked with Koulibaly lately and signing him would be one hell of a statement.
With Manchester United desperate to land a central defender, Harry Maguire is someone they can rope in. The Leicester City defender is accustomed to the Premier League and more often than not, he has lived up to the expectations of the fans.
The 25-year-old is a vital cog in the defensive sector of the Foxes and after 16 league appearances so far this term, he averages 1.4 tackles, 1.5 interceptions and 5.6 clearances per game. Besides, he has found the back of the net on 2 occasions.
Statistics Credits: WhoScored
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