Manchester United have been linked with the ‘young Matthijs De Ligt’ after receiving glowing scout reports for the £26million defender.
Manchester United dedicated their summer to rejuvenating their attacking department, as well as strengthening their depth between the sticks.
Ruben Amorim’s side have looked like one of the most dangerous attacking outfits in the Premier League so far this season, with their new forward Bryan Mbeumo contributing six goals and an assist.
Despite only one clean sheet, Senne Lammens has provided some much-needed consistency as the new United shot-stopper, and has been a vast improvement from his predecessor, Andre Onana.
As for the Red Devils’ backline, there were no signings made in the summer, although United are being linked with the ‘young Matthijs De Ligt‘, who is priced at £26million.
United linked to Affengruber
United have identified Elche centre-back David Affengruber as a potential target for next summer, according to sources from TeamTalk.
At 24 years old, the Austrian defender is being described as a ‘young Matthijs De Ligt’, mainly due to his composure and aerial strength, which has helped his side to sit ninth in the La Liga table.
The Elche sporting director, Sergio Mantecon, has described the defender as “the silent leader of our defence”, although he only has a contract until June 2027.
Affengruber has a £26million price tag as the club aims to deter any January interest, although they have accepted that it will be difficult to keep him beyond next summer due to him attracting attention.
United seeking a replacement
It would make sense for the Reds to try and line up a move for a new defender in the summer, especially considering the potential departure of Harry Maguire.
The English defender only has a contract at the club until next summer, and it is still up in the air as to whether the club will offer him a renewal.
READ MORE: Manchester United training squad vs Bournemouth revealed as Matthijs de Ligt decision made
If Maguire is to depart next summer, then it can be expected that the Reds will look at some options for a replacement, with Affengruber being a potential option.
The same report states that Amorim views Affengruber as an ideal long-term partner to Leny Yoro. United have watched the Austrian on multiple occasions and have submitted glowing reports.
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