Manchester United’s defence needs to be overhauled considering the performances the players have put in this season with the Red Devils conceding three or more goals 13 times in the current campaign.
In addition to giving up the second-most goals in the Champions League group stages, Erik ten Hag’s club finished embarrassingly last in a group that was actually quite easy.
The manager has been forced to make regular substitutions and chops because of injuries, which the Dutchman will blame for the unsettling appearance of the back four this season.
With Raphael Varane, Jonny Evans, Lisandro Martinez, and Victor Lindelof out injured, the former Ajax coach just has one veteran center-back, Harry Maguire, at his disposal.
Defensive overhaul
The French World Cup winner is expected to be allowed to depart while the 36-year-old’s current deal ends in June. Both the Swede and former captain have been linked with exits.
As relayed by The Peoples Person, the new co-owners INEOS are looking at multiple additions at the back with the plan being to recruit one big-nаme centre-back and one diamond in the rough.
Fichajes have now linked the 20-time English league champions with one of Europe’s most promising young defensive talents, Jan-Carlo Simic of AC Milan.
The 18-year-old has enjoyed a breakthrough season at the Rossoneri, making six appearances which includes one start, while he also scored on his Serie A debut against Monza.
The former Stuttgart youth talent’s displays have alerted European big-wigs to his availability with Real Madrid and Arsenal said to be eyeing the youngster along with United.
Eyes on Jan-Carlo Simic
His current deal is valid until 2025 and that could open up the possibility of a sale especially if the club fails to agree a new contract with the Serbia U19 international.
“Jan-Carlo Simic is one of the greatest future talents of the current AC Milan squad at 18 years old, something that has served to attract the attention of numerous top-level European teams who would be willing to offer large amounts of money to secure his services.
“Simic is already on the radar of teams like Real Madrid, who closely follow his progress with an eye on the future, without forgetting the presence of other clubs like Manchester United or Arsenal.”
His current market value stands at €5 million with the Milan giants keen to hold on. They will likely ask for a lot more to part ways with their upcoming star.