Manchester United centre-back target joins Bryan Mbeumo’s agency ahead of January
Manchester United are considering further defensive reinforcements as Michael Carrick looks to address the weaknesses that have contributed to his side’s difficult start to the season.
The Red Devils produced a thrilling comeback to beat Roma 3-2 in the Champions League on Tuesday, with Matheus Cunha scoring twice after Bruno Fernandes had begun the recovery from the penalty spot.
However, while United’s attacking quality was evident throughout the second half, question marks remain over their defensive options.
Michael Carrick confirms Man Utd injury news before Aston Villa
United will look to build on their dramatic European victory when they welcome Aston Villa to Old Trafford on Sunday, although Carrick faces several selection problems.
Lisandro Martínez is unavailable after receiving a red card against Chelsea last weekend, leaving the Argentine suspended for the Premier League encounter.
The defender featured as a substitute against Roma, with Ayden Heaven partnering Harry Maguire from the start, while Matthijs de Ligt made his second appearance since returning from injury.
Patrick Dorgu could provide some welcome reinforcement after resuming training, although Carrick has warned against rushing the youngster back into action.
“Patrick’s done a little bit of training this week, you’ve seen him train with us at the start of the week,” he said. “Very, very small [number of sessions], so we have got to be patient with Pat, you know. He’s had a good period of time now, with a couple of hamstrings, we need to really manage that, and be patient with that over the next few weeks.
“But he’s slowly getting back with us, so we’ll have to see if he can be involved at the weekend or not.”
United will also be without Carlos Baleba following the hamstring injury he sustained against Roma, while Luke Shaw, Manuel Ugarte, Marcus Rashford and Benjamin Šeško have been sidelined.
With Martínez suspended and several other players still working towards full fitness, United’s defensive options remain a concern as the January transfer window approaches.
Castello Lukeba makes major agent change amid Man Utd interest
Manchester United have expressed interest in RB Leipzig centre-back Castello Lukeba, who has now made a significant decision concerning his future.
According to Sky Sports Germany journalist Philipp Hinze, via Sport Witness, the French defender has left BS Group International and joined Excellence Sport Nation.
The agency also represents United forward Bryan Mbeumo, giving Lukeba an interesting connection to the Old Trafford squad as speculation surrounding a Premier League move intensifies.
Lukeba is understood to be keen on taking the next step in his career, having previously considered leaving Leipzig during the summer.
The 23-year-old is targeting a move to a leading European club, with the ambition of establishing himself at a level that could improve his prospects of representing France internationally.
A transfer could become more realistic next summer, when the centre-back’s release clause is due to fall from €80m to €65m, or approximately £54m.
For United, Lukeba would offer a younger option in central defence as the club considers the long-term futures of its established players.
His pace and ability to operate on the left side of a centre-back partnership could be particularly useful, although the competition for his signature and the potential transfer fee represent significant obstacles.
Man Utd also eyeing new striker ahead of January
Defence is not the only area United are hoping to strengthen, with the club also exploring options in attack following Šeško’s injury.
As previously reported by Football FanCast, the Red Devils have been in contact with the representatives of Palmeiras striker Vitor Roque over a potential January move.
The 21-year-old Brazilian is represented by André Cury, who has confirmed interest from several European clubs, including United’s Premier League rivals Chelsea and Tottenham.
Palmeiras reportedly value Roque at a minimum of €50m, approximately £42m, meaning a deal would require another substantial investment.
With Mbeumo and Cunha providing encouragement against Roma but the squad still lacking depth in key positions, United face important decisions over how to allocate their January transfer budget.
