Man U Set to Hijack Bayern Leverkusen Target for £27 Million

It is no secret that Manchester United are yet again looking for defensive reinforcements in this summer’s transfer market. United were in for Lille’s Gabriel but have pulled the plug on that deal. The Red Devils are now targeting Benoit Badiashile.

The young centre back is yet another prospect coming out of Monaco, adding to an already stacked roster of talented French centre-backs. The teenager has generated interest from clubs like Bayer Leverkusen, Real Madrid and Chelsea. But it was the club from Germany who were in advanced talks to sign Badiashile.

In a surprising turn of events, United are now in pole position to sign the Frenchman, according to The Sun. Badiashile’s pace and years to come make him an ideal choice at Old Trafford given concerns over some of their senior centre backs.

Solskjaer is after a new long-term defensive partner for £80million man Harry Maguire.

Napoli’s Kalidou Koulibaly remains an option but United have been put off by his £70m asking price.

The Norwegian wants a player with bags of pace which leaves question marks over Victor Lindelof and the fitness of Eric Bailly who has been out of action since F.A Cup semi final loss to Chelsea.

New Monaco boss Niko Kovac is also reportedly an admirer of Badiashile but the decision to keep him might be out of his hands due to the financial constraints posed by the corona-virus. United seem to be in the perfect place financially to exploit the market given the current climate.

He was rewarded with a new contract in December to keep him at the club until the summer of 2024. The report adds how an offer of around £27.2million may be enough to convince Monaco to cash in. Monaco know they won’t be able to keep hold of Badiashile if a big club came calling and his new deal was to ensure his price-tag remains high.