Manchester United are already planning for the winter transfer window and are reportedly preparing a €40 million (£34.4m) bid for a Belgian centre-back.
During the summer window, Manchester United mainly strengthened their attacking options by investing over £170m on three forwards: Matheus Cunha, Benjamin Sesko, and Bryan Mbeumo (. It is also worth noting the arrival of Senne Lammens for €21 million (£18m) to replace André Onana in goal.
Defensive Reinforcements Now a Priority for United
In total, according to Transfermarkt data, the Red Devils spent £215m, but did not strengthen their midfield or defence. It is precisely the defensive line that is now making headlines. According to Caught Offside, defensive signings will be Manchester United's main focus during the January transfer window.
The British outlet has already linked United with one target in central defence: Zeno Debast, a 21-year-old who currently plays for Sporting CP, where he has become a regular starter. He is coming off a full season, having made 48 appearances, scoring 2 goals and providing 4 assists.
Zeno Debast Has a €80m Release Clause
Zeno Debast is a highly regarded player across Europe. In the Premier League, Arsenal and Aston Villa are also reportedly interested in the Belgian international. According to Caught Offside, Manchester United could be the first club to take action, with a €40 million (£34.4m) bid under consideration.
This offer would aim to test the stance of both the player and Sporting, who could demand significantly more given Debast’s €80 million (£68.8m) release clause. In this case, the presence of Ruben Amorim, who previously coached Debast at Sporting, could play a decisive role.
This article was originally published on Top Mercato.
