The summer transfer window is just over the horizon and we are expecting to see Manchester United being linked with centre back after centre back.
Fabrizio Romano has already indicated that United will be signing a central defender this summer.
Lisandro Martinez’s injury record and Raphael Varane’s contract situation mean at least one centre back is bound to be a priority.
Add in that Harry Maguire has been linked away to West Ham United again alongside questions over Victor Lindelof’s long-term future and the heart of defence may need some attention.
Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite has been touted as a top target with Ineos looking to place a keen focus on homegrown talents.
United could still look further afield though and there have been plenty of rumours surrounding a potential move for Bayern Munich’s Matthijs de Ligt.
Erik ten Hag coached De Ligt at Ajax and a reunion may appeal to all, but what if United actually go for one of his Bayern teammates instead?
READ MORE: Manchester United transfer history 2013 to present day
Manchester United linked with Dayot Upamecano
Reporter Rudy Galetti has now taken to social media to state that United are considering a number of names – including Bayern’s Dayot Upamecano.
It’s stated that Upamecano is on the list alongside Nice star Jean-Clair Todibo and Benfica talent Antonio Silva.
Galetti claims that Upamecano is now open to a move away from Bayern this summer as he considers an experience away from the Bundesliga.
Upamecano first headed to Germany in 2017, joining Red Bull Salzburg from partner club RB Leipzig.
Four years in Leipzig resulted in Upamecano making a £37million move to Bayern in 2021, meaning he has now spent seven years in German football.
Upamecano’s form has been up and down at times and was recently sent off twice in a matter of days against Lazio and VfL Bochum.
The 25-year-old may be ready to try something different this summer and a move to Old Trafford may well appeal.
What has been said about Upamecano?
A quick and powerful centre back, Upamecano isn’t the tallest defender at 6ft 1in tall but his physicality jumps out at you.
Upamecano has been hailed in years gone by and here are some of the words of praise he has received…
“I’ve not seen a faster centre-back, and Dayot has an unbelievable physique,” – former RB Leipzig teammate Timo Werner.
“Upamecano is young, good on the ball, athletic, strong, mobile, plays every game. He’s one you can see coming in right now,” – Rio Ferdinand tipping Upamecano for Manchester United in 2020.
“He’s a great defender. He didn’t need much time to adapt. He already knew the coach, and what was expected of him. He’s a great guy, very very nice, a fantastic player. Defensively, he gives us a lot.” – Former Bayern teammate Lucas Hernandez.