Manchester United still have plenty of work to do. After a rapid-fire start saw them welcome Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans, things have frustratingly slowed as the campaign approaches.
The Red Devils could still do with another midfielder, with Aurelien Tchouameni the biggest name that could arrive on that front. And they’re also still in the market for a left-back amid links with Newcastle United’s Lewis Hall.
But that’s not all. Man United have also now joined the race to sign Jhon Lucumi from Bologna, competing against Premier League rivals Chelsea and Italian giants Juventus.
|
Man United’s potential centre-back options 26/27 |
|
|---|---|
|
Harry Maguire |
After earning a new contract last season, Harry Maguire has stuck around and is set to compete for a starting place under Michael Carrick. Whilst he is no longer at the peak of his powers at 33 years old, he certainly doesn’t lack experience and leadership. |
|
Lisandro Martinez |
Lisandro Martinez enjoyed an excellent World Cup even if Argentina came up short in the final. If he can carry that form back to Old Trafford and stay fit, then he should be among those most likely to start in Carrick’s backline. |
|
Leny Yoro |
Still just 20 years old, Leny Yoro is someone who should get better by the season. After starting 18 Premier League games last season, the Frenchman will be expecting to receive similar game-time. |
|
Ayden Heaven |
The same can be said for 19-year-old Ayden Heaven. Alongside Yoro, he is the future of Man United’s backline and has been incredibly impressive since arriving from Arsenal in 2025. |
|
Matthijs de Ligt |
It’s easy to forget since he’s been out for so long, but Matthijs de Ligt is Man United’s best centre-back. He will make all the difference when he finally returns from injury in the early stages of the season, potentially grabbing an instant starting place. |
|
Jhon Lucumi* |
Man United would have an incredibly complete set of centre-backs if they signed Lucumi this summer. The towering defender would add the experience that Yoro and Heaven lack, whilst still being at the peak of his powers at 28 years old. |
Carrick already has a stacked backline to choose from, but he would certainly not say no to more quality ahead of his side’s Champions League return.
Man Utd launch move to sign Jhon Lucumi
According to Quotidiano Sportivo, as relayed by Sport Witness, Man United have now launched their move to sign Lucumi from Bologna. The defender has already green-lit a transfer to the Premier League and is ready to move to England instead of waiting for Juventus if the Turin club continue to take their time.
Bologna have already received an offer worth €25m (£21m) from Nottingham Forest, but a move to the City Ground does not interest Lucumi. Juventus, meanwhile, have seen their latest offer worth €18m (£15m) rejected and Chelsea have since made contact with the Serie A club regarding a move.
The centre-back is a man in-demand, but it could yet be Man United who win the race for his signature.
