4 players who could solve Manchester United’s centre-back problem

Manchester United are currently 10th in the Premier League, nine points adrift of leaders Manchester City and without a clean sheet in their last three outings. The Red Devils have shipped 12 goals in seven league games this season – only four clubs have conceded more – meaning manager Jose Mourinho will surely look to the winter transfer market to bolster his backline.

After executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward denied Mourinho the chance to sign a centre-back over the summer, the United boss has continued to criticise his lack of depth at the back in almost every press conference. If he’s still in charge when January arrives, there are four players Mourinho should consider who could solve United’s centre-back problem.

---

#4 José Giménez – Atletico Madrid

Uruguay v Portugal: Round of 16 - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia

The 23-year-old signed a new deal with Atletico Madrid in the summer but that shouldn’t rule out a big-money move. Gimenez has become a regular in the Atletico Madrid first-team and would certainly improve United’s backline if they could procure his signature.

Operating alongside Diego Godin, Gimenez is keeping the likes of Lucas Hernandez and Stefan Savic sidelined and has been outstanding this season. Only Godin (22) has won more aerial duels than the younger centre-back (15), but nobody in the squad has made more interceptions (11).

He wouldn’t come cheap but he’d be worth it and United have been linked with his signature previously.

#3 Matthijs de Ligt – Ajax

Ajax v Royal Standard de Liege - UEFA Champions League

third round

qualifying match

De Light might be too young to be thrown straight into the United defence, but he’s been tipped to have a bright future and is too good to overlook - plus United have been keeping tabs on his progress. The 19-year-old has been a regular at Ajax for more than 12 months and has represented the Netherlands national team on nine occasions.

With so much interest in his signature from other clubs around Europe, United may have to act fast. The centre-back, who can also operate in midfield, blocks a pass, shot or cross on average every 38 minutes and is highly composed in possession – 91.1% pass completion ratio in the Eredivie this season.

#2 Toby Alderweireld – Tottenham Hotspur

Tottenham Hotspur v Watford - Carabao Cup Third Round

United missed out on Alderweireld’s signature during the summer but they could sign the Belgian international for a bargain in January or at the end of the season. Alderweireld’s contract expires next summer, forcing Tottenham to either cash in early or keep him at White Hart Lane until his deal runs out.

Reports earlier in the summer suggested the 29-year-old was keen to make the switch to Old Trafford, so he should still be keen to move in January or July next year. He’s no closer to signing a new deal with Tottenham, opening the door to a transfer. It's easy to forget he's one of the best centre-backs in the Premier League.

#1 Gary Cahill – Chelsea

England Media Access - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia

Under Mourinho, Cahill was one of the best centre-backs in the Premier League. The English international has lost his place for club and country in the last 12 months but a move to Manchester United could resurrect his career. Cahill is experienced, has won league titles and European honours and would surely relish the chance to link up with his former boss.

At age 32, he isn’t getting any younger, but a short-term deal could be a smart move as he’s admitted he wants to leave Chelsea due to a lack of playing time. United wouldn’t have to break the bank for a talented defender who is an improvement on most of their options, so it's a no-brainer to make an enquiry.

---

Send us news tips at [email protected]