Manchester United’s hunt for a central defender continues as the Red Devils have been linked with Victor Lindelof again. The Benfica defender was supposed to join United in January but due to some clauses in his contract, the deal got cancelled. According to some reports, United have started to track the player again, with renewed hopes, as Jose Mourinho will undergo a complete squad makeover in the next season.
United won their second title after drubbing Ajax 2-0 in the Europa League final and thus have qualified for the Champions League group stage. There was a bit of concern after United’s failure to make it to the top four in the Premier League but now they have secured entry to the Champions League and it should pave a move for the Swedish star.
Lindelof remains United’s first choice despite the last transfer saga between United and Benfica. Terms were agreed between the two sides but at the last moment, the Swedish international reverted from the deal as he preferred to stay at the Portuguese club.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic is believed to be an ardent admirer of the defender and has referred him to the United hierarchy. The Red Devils’ defence has been good throughout the season but Mourinho wants to start from basics for the next campaign. Eric Bailly has been a constant performer in the United backline but there have been problems regarding his centre-back partner. Phil Jones has been good but injuries have a long term association with him while Chris Smalling’s future is uncertain and he seems to be surplus to requirements for this squad.
Now that Champions League nights are back at Old Trafford, United might make a move for him quickly. The idea of playing in the top tier competition of Europe is a dream for every footballer and Mourinho could just use this to tempt a move for him.
There will be added pressure in the upcoming season and Mourinho needs to make sure that there are adequate backups in every section especially defence. The defence has caused a lot of problems to the side as most of the season, the manager had to field his lineup with only one or two fit centre-backs. Lindelof’s addition will solve that crisis.
The 22-year-old has featured 32 times this season and steered his side to the Portuguese League title. He has a price tag of £40m but United are expected to bargain on his price. A bid is imminent from the Red Devils and he could be a United player very soon.
