It is clear that Manchester United desperately require a new centre back if they are to stand a chance of finishing in the top four this season and as a result, many believe that the Red Devils will bring out their chequebook once again in January in order to recruit the services of a player who can plug the glaring gaps in their backline.
Therefore, it has been no surprise to see a host of names being such as Winston Reid, Ezequiel Garay and Mats Hummels being linked with a move to Old Trafford over the past few weeks or so and now another name in the form of Aymeric Laporte has emerged as a target for Red Devils.
Laporte being eyed up by Manchester United
Laporte currently plies his trade at Spanish side Athletic Bilbao and is widely considered as one of the best young defenders in Europe at the moment.
The young man played a big role in Bilbao’s top four finish last season – making over 35 appearances for the club and his stock continues to rise during the current campaign as well, following a couple of fine performances so far.
Tall, strong and very composed; Laporte can play at left back as well as in central defence and it is frightening to think how good a player he will become if he continues his current rate of development.
United ready to break record fee to sign Laporte
As a result, there has been no surprise to see Laporte attracting the interest from a host of top clubs and according to reports emerging out of Spain, Manchester United are hoping to lure the defender to Old Trafford to solve their defensive woes.
It has been claimed that United are willing match Laporte’s release clause with stands at a whopping £32million and if the deal does eventually come into fruition, it would surpass the £31.9million Manchester shelled out for Eliaquim Mangala – making the youngster the most expensive defender in Premier League history.
While it remains to be seen whether United would be willing to splash such a large amount to recruit the Frenchman, the Red Devils have proved that they are not afraid to break the bank to sign young players – as evidenced by their £30million signing of Luke Shaw over the summer.
