Movement has “already started” around Manchester United £50m target, says Fabrizio Romano

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, movement surrounding one of Manchester United’s £50 million targets has “already started” ahead of the summer window.

Manchester United are set to focus on defensive signings in the summer transfer window as Rúben Amorim looks to strengthen his backline.

The club made additions in January, bringing in young centre-back Ayden Heaven from Arsenal and wing-back Patrick Dorgu from Lecce. However, defensive issues remain, with Lisandro Martínez sidelined until November.

Several departures are expected in the summer. Victor Lindelöf will leave when his contract expires in June, while Jonny Evans is also likely to move on.

There is also uncertainty over the futures of Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia. Shaw has not started for United in nearly a year due to ongoing injury problems, while Malacia, currently on loan at PSV, is not part of Amorim’s long-term plans.

Movement starting around United target, says Romano

According to reports from last month, United have been tracking Bournemouth centre-back Dean Huijsen, with suggestions being that they will look to make a move for the Spaniard this summer.

The 19-year-old has taken the Premier League by storm since he signed for the South Coast club from Juventus in 2024, and United are said to be one of many clubs who are pondering a move for him this summer.

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, such movements are now starting to happen surrounding the player who scored at Old Trafford back in December.

Romano stated on X that “movements around the defender have already started” as the 2025 summer window approaches following the news that there is a £50 million release clause in his Bournemouth contract.

🚨👀 £50m release clause for Dean Huijsen revealed last month becomes active already this summer.

It’s valid for all clubs, no limits… and the movements around the defender have already started. pic.twitter.com/06ReCFJKYw

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) March 19, 2025

Which other defenders have United been tracking?

While Huijsen is a defender United appreciate, they continue to be linked with other centre-back options ahead of the summer window.

Read More: Chelsea told to avoid Jadon Sancho transfer as Manchester United penalty fee emerges

Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite is a player United were chasing last summer but failed to land, and there have been rumours the club may look to make another attempt in 2025.

Sporting CP’s Goncalo Inacio has been of long-term interest to United, and with the player maintaining a clear link with Amorim after playing under him in Portugal, it’s only natural that United will be linked with the player.

Finally, there have also been tentative links to Inter Milan’s Alessandro Bastoni after United reportedly tested the waters for him last summer. Bastoni could be a good fit for Amorim’s system, having started on the left of a back three for the Italian national side previously.

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