Manchester United has reportedly made an inquiry regarding the signing of a £34 million defender. This player is also a target for Tottenham Hotspur and once declined a potential move to Arsenal.
Man Utd eyeing defensive reinforcements this summer
It is evident that Manchester United needs to bolster several areas this summer, with strengthening the attack being a priority, marked by the arrival of Matheus Cunha and the anticipated signing of Bryan Mbeumo. However, manager Ruben Amorim is also focused on reinforcing the defense and exploring potential new signings for the back line.
Late last week, Spanish reports suggested that INEOS was preparing a £25 million offer for AS Monaco`s Vanderson. The Brazilian primarily plays as a right-back, suggesting he would compete for a wing-back position under Amorim. The 23-year-old concluded last season with one goal and three assists across 29 Ligue 1 matches, earning him a call-up to the Brazil national team for Carlo Ancelotti`s initial games in charge.
In addition to the rumored bid for Vanderson, news has surfaced that United has initiated discussions to sign Aymeric Laporte from Al-Nassr. The French defender is expected to depart Saudi Arabia this summer, and United`s interest is notable, especially considering his history with rivals Manchester City. Al-Nassr is reportedly seeking around £23 million for Laporte.
Man Utd make enquiry to sign Evan Ndicka from Roma
Laporte is not the sole centre-back on the Red Devils` radar. According to RMC Sport, Manchester United has approached AS Roma concerning a potential transfer for Evan Ndicka. Ndicka previously turned down a move to Arsenal, stating at the time: “I`m not pretending that I don`t see the rumours. But I have respect in Rome and I respect them. I have three years remaining on my contract, we will see what happens later.”
Amorim is keen to enhance his defensive options, and Ndicka is now being considered by the Red Devils. However, they face competition from Tottenham, who have also contacted Roma about a possible deal. Spurs might have an advantage as they can offer the defender Champions League football.
Despite his contract running until 2028, Ndicka, described as “superb” by scout Jacek Kulig, is reportedly permitted to leave Roma this summer. The Italian club is reportedly seeking around €40 million, which is approximately £34 million, for his services.
| Evan Ndicka`s 24/25 Serie A stats | |
|---|---|
| Apps | 38 |
| Starts | 38 |
| Assists | 1 |
| Touches per game | 75.3 |
| Balls recovered per game | 3.5 |
| Dribbled past per game | 0.2 |
| Clearances per game | 3.8 |
| Errors leading to goal | 0 |
The 25-year-old, who has six caps for Ivory Coast, joined Roma on a free transfer in July 2023. He has been a consistent performer for the club, featuring in every league match during the 2024/25 season.
He started all 38 games and contributed to Roma keeping 16 clean sheets. With Victor Lindelof having left Old Trafford and Lisandro Martínez recovering from a long-term injury, Amorim may view Ndicka as a player who can offer valuable competition and improve the team`s defensive structure.
