United plotting to replace Maguire with world-class CB available on a free, but they face stiff opposition – report

Manchester United are plotting to sign Dayot Upamecano next summer but face a battle with Paris Saint-Germain after the European champions identified the Bayern Munich defender as a key target, while Real Madrid also lurk in the background.

A bargain deal

Upamecano, 26, is a key member of Bayern’s squad, playing 38 times in all competitions as Vincent Kompany’s side reclaimed the Bundesliga title last season.

But the France international’s contract at the Allianz Arena expires next year, meaning clubs on the continent can begin negotiations over a free transfer from January.

This has put United on red-alert over the prospect of securing a player with a wealth of experience at football’s highest level, both domestically and internationally.

Spanish outlet Fichajes reveals the Red Devils believe Upamecano would provide a “significant upgrade for their defensive line.”

Ruben Amorim’s system – a 3-4-2-1 formation – relies on centre-backs with outstanding physical and technical attribute, a combination Upamecano possesses in abundance.

United’s priority in the market next year will be midfield after a failed pursuit of Brighton starlet Carlos Baleba this summer.

The club are expected to return for the Cameroonian next year, but alternative targets like Adam Wharton (Crystal Palace) and Elliott Anderson (Nottingham Forest) are also under consideration. All three would likely cost around the £100 million mark, however.

United will also target a new central defender, meaning a pursuit of Upamecano on a free would free up the bulk of the budget to be directed towards one of these prized midfielders, even if his wage demands are likely to be significant.

Competition from abroad

The Red Devils face intense competition for Upamecano, however, with both PSG and Real Madrid having identified the Frenchman as a key target.

A source at the Bernabeu reveals Los Blancos are on the hunt for a “young but experienced centre back” and Upamecano “fits the bill perfectly.”

However, PSG look set to trump their continental rivals to secure the defender with sporting director Luis Campos making clear the club’s intention in an unusually public manner.

“[Upamecano is] an elite defender, with international experience, and can lead our defence alongside Marquinhos,” the executive revealed to local media, suggesting a level of confidence in agreeing a deal.

United will struggle to convince the talented French defender to choose Old Trafford over two of Europe’s best teams.

But INEOS have experience in doing exactly that after the capture of Leny Yoro last year from under the noses of both PSG and Real Madrid.

Featured image Alexander Hassenstein via Getty Images

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