5 defenders Manchester United failed to sign this summer

#4 Jerome Boateng (Bayern Munich)

German defender Jerome Boateng would've brought much-needed solidity and leadership at the back for Manchester United.

The 29-year-old defender, Jerome Boateng is a proven leader and one of the best defenders in the world. Physically strong and composed in possession, his stock increased even further when he produced a match-winning performance for the Germans in the final of the 2014 FIFA World Cup.

Initially a right back the versatile defender joined German giants Bayern Munich in 2011 for a €13.5 million transfer fee from Premier League side Manchester City. He has never looked back since and was a key component in the club's continental treble during the 2012/13 season.

According to various reports, Manchester United was leading the race to sign the experienced defender this summer. He was seen to be one of the top targets for Jose Mourinho in this transfer window with a deal costing between €50 and €60 million.

However, the transfer did not complete as according to Daily Mail, the Red Devils were wary of spending big on a player with injury issues because of past concerns with Bastian Schweinsteiger and Owen Hargreaves.

Now, the German is favorite to join French giants Paris Saint-Germain as confirmed by Bayern's president Uli Hoeness who said he has a "50-50" chance of leaving Bayern Munich.