MANCHESTER UNITED have reportedly identified three defenders that could pair up with Harry Maguire next season.
ESPN claim Bournemouth star Nathan Ake, Aston Villa ace Tyrone Mings and AC Milan’s Alessio Romagnoli are on the club’s radar.
Maguire made the move to Old Trafford from Leicester City for £80million last summer.
The 27-year-old has cemented his spot in the heart of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s defence.
He has played alongside Victor Lindelof for the majority of the campaign.
But it is understood that Solskjaer is determined to sign a new centre-half this summer.
Nathan Ake
United have been long-term admirers of the Dutchman – but Chelsea and Manchester City are also interested.
He has made 27 Premier League appearances for Eddie Howe’s struggling side this season.
But Bournemouth are reportedly prepared to listen to offers for the 25-year-old this summer.
The Cherries are desperate to recoup some funds after being hit hard by the coronavirus.
It is understood that he is valued by the club at around £40million.
Solskjaer had a post-game chat with Ake following United’s 5-2 win over Bournemouth.
And fans are convinced the Red Devils boss told him that he needed a left-footed centre-back.
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Tyrone Mings
Another option for Solskjaer is believed to be Aston Villa defender Mings.
The Villans forked out £20million to sign the 27-year-old permanently from Bournemouth last summer.
He has made 31 appearances across all competitions for Dean Smith’s team this term.
But with Aston Villa in the relegation zone, Mings could be tempted with a move away.
The 6ft 5in powerhouse has also attracted interest from Arsenal.
Solskjaer will get the chance to check out Mings during Thursday’s match between Villa and United.
Alessio Romagnoli
Last but not least, it’s AC Milan skipper Romagnoli.
Manchester United were heavily linked to the Italian in 2018 and then again in the summer of 2019.
It could be third time lucky for the Red Devils as they look to lure him away from Milan.
The defender is under contract with the club until 2022, but could be tempted with a move away as they look set to miss out on Champions League football.
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Romagnoli has been a huge hit since he joined AC Milan from Roma permanently for £22m in 2015.
The club are keen to tie down the 25-year-old down with a new deal.
But United, Chelsea, Barcelona, Lazio and Atletico Madrid are said to be closely monitoring his situation.
