Manchester United extends its winning streak, securing a third consecutive Premier League triumph with a 2-1 victory at Villa Park on Sunday. Scottish international Scott McTominay salvaged the three points for his side after coming off the bench to score the winner, keeping their top-four aspirations alive.
Apart from aiming for a top-four finish by the season’s end, the Red Devils are keen to strengthen their defense this summer. Bundesliga table-toppers Bayer Leverkusen’s key defensive talents, Edmond Tapsoba and Jeremie Frimpong, have been shortlisted as potential targets.
Manchester United reportedly interested in Bayer duo
Manchester United is preparing for significant squad reinforcements this summer, following the Premier League’s official sanction of the takeover by Sir Jim Ratcliffe. The billionaire, soon to be in charge of sporting operations, is finalizing the list of potential players to pursue in the upcoming summer transfer window.
Reportedly. Manchester United is keen on Bayer Leverkusen’s sensational defenders, Edmond Tapsoba and Jeremie Frimpong, who have been shortlisted for potential signings at the season’s end. Both are integral to Xabi Alonso’s lineup, prompting United to closely monitor their situations in anticipation of a significant transfer move.
The 25-year-old Tapsoba has been a cornerstone of the club’s defense, making 25 appearances in all competitions this season and delivering solid performances as a center-back. He was recently called up to the Burkina Faso squad for the 2023 AFCON and is under contract with Leverkusen until 2028.
The Dutch fullback, Frimpong, is another stellar performer for the German club, with 18 goal contributions in 27 appearances this season, making him one of the most lethal right-backs in Europe in heavy demand among big clubs. Notably, acquiring the duo could cost Erik ten Hag’s side up to a staggering £100 million.
United’s chance at signing the duo depends on major PL rivals
Manchester United’s chances of bringing the duo from Germany to Old Trafford could be threatened by reports linking Liverpool legend Xabi Alonso with a return to Anfield as the new boss, potentially succeeding Jürgen Klopp, who is stepping down at the end of this season. This move could mean that the duo might join Liverpool along with their current manager.
Nonetheless, the Red Devils are ready to offload some of their defenders to make room for two potential targets. With Jonny Evans at 36, and both Harry Maguire and Raphael Varane having passed the 30-year mark, performance concerns have arisen.
Also, Victor Lindelöf has not been performing exceptionally, leaving Lisandro Martínez as the only long-term defensive prospect. Last year, there was an attempt to sign Frimpong, but the presence of Diogo Dalot and Aaron Wan-Bissaka in the team halted the negotiations.
