Latest developments
- Manchester United are said to be interested in signing Sikou Niakate.
- Manchester City are also reportedly in the race for the SC Braga defender.
- United scouts have closely followed the Mali international.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (3/5): Not much known about the outlet's sources
According to reports, Manchester United are looking to sign SC Braga man Sikou Niakate, who has emerged as one of the standout defenders in the Portuguese top flight. The Red Devils have been “keeping a close eye on the situation”, but Manchester City have also been linked with the Mali star.
Africafoot have made the claim. The outlet specialises in covering African and French players, but not much is known about their sources, who report on United's interest.
Value (3.5/5): Affordable release clause
Niakate is tied to Braga until 2028. However, his contract includes a release clause worth £25million. The figure appears reasonable for a centre-back who has consistently impressed in Portugal over the last 18 months. Both City and United could afford to pull the trigger if they are really determined to sign the 25-year-old.
Suitability (3/5): Option for the left-side of defence
It is understood Pep Guardiola is “attracted” by Niakate's ability to play on the left side of defence. United's backline could also do with a resilient centre-back like Niakate, considering they don't have many left-footed defenders at Carrington.
Upgrade? (3.5/5): Challenge for Martinez
Lisandro Martinez is currently the first-choice centre-back at United when it comes to covering the left side of the defence. Niakate may not be as good as the Argentine in possession, but he is certainly good enough to challenge and even replace the United star for a spot in the United XI, owing to his physicality.
Logic (2.5/5): The other half of Manchester needs him more
United's priority heading into the January transfer window appears to be signing wing-backs, as they have several central defenders already. However, City appear in desperate need of a new centre-back, as Guardiola's current options continue to give away easy goals. On that basis, choosing blue over red seems more logical for the player if Manchester is to be his next port of call.
Whisper+ verdict: 15.5/25
The outlet suggests both Manchester clubs could make an offer to sign Niakate in January. Question marks remain over the outlet's sources, but the defender is certainly good enough to move to the Premier League and a winter move isn't a far-fetched possibility.
