Stay or Go: An analysis of Manchester United's current centre-backs

Victor Lindelof was Manchester United's best central defender last season.

#3 Chris Smalling (Verdict- Keep)

Huddersfield Town v Manchester United - Premier League

Chris Smalling is the only centre-back in United squad who fits the template of a traditional English defender- one who dominates the opposing attackers physically. The 29-year-old won 102 aerial duels and made 57 headed clearances in his 24 Premier League appearances last season.

The aforementioned stat underscores Smalling's aerial prowess, makes him essential while defending the long balls and set-piece situations from which United conceded most of their goals. Also one of the longest-serving players in the current squad, and wearing the captain's armband on a stand-in basis, Ole must be determined to keep Chris in his squad to groom younger players.

#4 Axel Tuanzebe (Verdict- Loan)

Axel Tuanzebe is one of the exciting young players Red Devils currently have in their squad. In spite of his foot injury, the youngster enjoyed a fruitful loan spell at Aston Villa where he honed his physical and ball-playing skills. Ole is keen to use Tuanzebe next season and will monitor his progress in the ongoing pre-season campaign.

With Harry Maguire's arrival at Old Trafford being imminent, Axel Tuanzebe will find himself way down the pecking order. To continue his smooth development, sending Axel out on another loan spell guarantees his playing time - an important factor given his age and potential to improve further.

Aston Villa is keen on signing the 21-year-old for his second stint on a temporary basis and United could be tempted by this offer after their pre-season ends.

Edited by Kingshuk Kusari