Though the January window has just closed, Manchester United have already started making their moves in order to stay ahead of its competitors. According to a report published in Fichajes, the English club are interested in acquiring the services of young Barcelona defender Pau Cubarsí for the next season.
The club has identified him as a potential player to improve their backline. Cubarsí renewed his contract with Barcelona last summer keeping him until 2026 with a release clause of approximately €10 million. His low release clause makes him a suitable option for multiple clubs.
Pau Cubarsí catches the limelight
The 17-year-old Pau Cubarsí has managed to impress everyone in his short professional career at Camp Nou so far. He got an opportunity after the Barcelona camp was hit by multiple injuries. Guarding the defensive line, the youngster stood tall and showed immense maturity under high pressure.
The Spanish defender is not very tall considering the centre-back position he holds but he is a brilliant reader of the game. He is really quick and solid to intercept any emerging threat around his own goalpost. Fair to say that he has done a great job in the absence of star defenders for his current club.
After featuring in six games this season so far, Cubarsí averages 1.5 tackles, 1.8 clearances, and 0.8 blocks per game. He is also good at distributing the ball from his half with a pass success percentage of 91. Not to forget his strong right foot from which he can shoot powerfully from a distance (stats via whoscored).
Manchester United needs to strengthen their defence
Defence is one area where the Red Devils need to improve immensely if they wish to compete in the domestic league. Acquiring Pau Cubarsí will help them to an extent considering his high quality and potential in the mind. His game-reading skills and high composure will be useful in the high-level football of the Premier League.
Cubarsí is just 17-year-old which makes him a great buy for the long term. With more experience under his hat, he will definitely improve and hit his peak in the near future. However, the signing won’t be easy for Manchester United.
Barcelona will try to not let the young bud go until and unless they see a heavy offer on the table. The English side will also face neck-to-neck competition from other major clubs across the globe. Manchester United can be seen advancing their efforts to land the youngster at Old Trafford in the coming months.
