Manchester United identify top defensive targets

Manchester United have identified Jules Kounde and Pau Torres as potential candidates to bolster the heart of their defence.

The Red Devils are looking for a new centre-back this summer with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer wanting a new partner for Harry Maguire.

According to 90min, the club have shortlisted their targets and Kounde and Torres are being closely monitored by the scouts.

However, there are no assurances that the Red Devils could sign either player due to the hefty price tags involved.

Kounde has a £70m release clause on his Sevilla contract while Villarreal are reluctant to sell Torres for anything less than £50m.

Hence, the club have earmarked alternative options in Caglar Soyuncu, Manuel Akanji, David Carmo and Benoit Badiashile.

United could lose the services of Eric Bailly this summer with the Ivorian reluctant to put pen-to-paper on a new contract.

Bailly has played second fiddle to Victor Lindelof and Maguire for the central defensive positions over the past 20 months.

The Ivory Coast international is frustrated with his situation and could be sold when he enters the final year of his contract later this year.