Manchester United willing to pay €60 million for 25-year-old who already has Erik Ten Hag's approval

Manchester United are reportedly keen to sign Villarreal defender Pau Torres this summer. The Spain international has caught the attention of a number of Europe's top clubs thanks to his performances for Unai Emery's side. He also has the approval of new manager Erik ten Hag to bring him to the club.

According to El Nacional, Manchester United interim manager Ralf Rangnick believes the club will have to undergo a major squad overhaul this summer. He has highlighted the club's need to sign a top-quality defender after growing frustrated with the inconsistent performances of Harry Maguire this season. The German, who will be a consultant next season, has made Torres his prime target.

Torres has developed into one of the best defenders in La Liga in recent years. He has made over 127 appearances for Villarreal in all competitions since making his debut for the club during the 2016-17 campaign.

The 25-year-old helped the Spanish club win the Europa League during the 2019-20 season. He played a key role in Spain's run to the semi-finals of Euro 2020, and the final of the 2020-21 UEFA Nations League.

Torres has continued his impressive form this season, scoring five goals in 40 appearances for Unai Emery's side. He helped Villarreal eliminate Juventus and Bayern Munich from the knockout stages on their way to the semi-finals of the Champions League.

Torres has a release clause of €75 million. The aforementioned report suggests Villarreal could be willing to listen to offers in the region of €60 million from United to prevent the defender from joining one of their domestic rivals.

Manchester United could face stiff competition from Real Madrid for Pau Torres' signature

Bayern München v Villarreal CF Quarter Final Leg Two - UEFA Champions League

Real Madrid were linked with a move for Pau Torres last summer. Los Blancos viewed the 25-year-old as a potential replacement for Sergio Ramos, who left the club after the expiration of his contract at the end of last season. The deal, however, failed to materialize.

The Spaniard, however, preferred to stay at Villarreal rather than join the Spanish giants. Fastrack to this summer, Carlo Ancelotti's side will reportedly resume their pursuit of Torres. The club's president Florentino Perez is believed to have contacted the defender's agents.

However, the Yellow Submarine are unlikely to sell the 25-year-old to a direct league rival and will be looking for suitors abroad.