Man Utd Transfer News: Red Devils identify Barcelona centreback as Harry Maguire replacement; two other London clubs also in the mix.

Man Utd Transfer News: Red Devils identify Barcelona centreback as Harry Maguire replacement. However, bringing him in will not be easy.

Following Harry Maguire’s injury, Manchester United are short at the back. The England international could be out for about 6 weeks. With Marcos Rojo also likely to leave this month, the club are desperate to add to their defensive options.

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According to  El Desmarque, Barcelona centreback Samuel Umtiti has been identified by Manchester United as the man they intend to bring in this January. The report states that Barcelona are also open to listening to the offers.

Other Premier League clubs also interested

However, Manchester United will face stern challenge from Arsenal and Tottenham; both of whom are also looking to boost their defence. Both North London sides have conceded more goals than they would have liked this season.

Mikel Arteta’s side have already conceded 30 goals in the Premier League so far. Spurs on the other hand, have conceded 19 since Jose Mourinho’s appointment in November. With David Luiz nearing the end of his career and Jan Vertonghen yet to sign a new contract, the 26-year old would be a valuable addition to both these sides.

While Umtiti has slipped in the pecking order behind Gerrard Pique and Clement Lenglet at Barcelona, the report states that the World Cup winner would be a good fit in the Premier League because he would adapt quickly to its physical nature.

However, with Tottenham building their new stadium and Arsenal having forked a large sum in the summer, United will back themselves in case the signing goes to a bidding war between all the three Premier League sides.

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