Manchester United turn to Pau Torres to help fix defensive malaise

Manchester United are looking to acquire the services of Pau Torres in the upcoming transfer window, according to Marca.

Per the report, United are willing to fork out £42million for Torres although the Spanish defender, who is under contract at Estadio de la Ceramica until 2025, has a release clause valued at £50m.

However, Villarreal are believed to be willing to sell for slightly lower than that figure in order to raise funds with The Sun also claiming that the player’s agents are expected to be in Manchester later this week to kick off talks over a potential move this summer.

Torres has caught the eye with his impressive displays for the Yellow Submarine over the last two seasons where he has won the Europa League – courtesy of a penalty-shootout victory over Man United – and reached the semi-finals of the Champions League.

Off the back of a woeful showing at the back during the just-concluded season where they conceded a whopping 57 goals in 38 Premier League outings, The Red Devils are in dire need of defensive reinforcements, especially with the futures of Eric Bailly and Phil Jones reportedly unclear.

Incoming manager Erik Ten Hag wants a central defender who is suited to his style of play and it was no surprise to see Jurrien Timber linked with a move to Old Trafford having worked with ten Hag at Ajax.

Torres would also fit the bill perfectly due to his superb ball-playing ability as he ranks in the 90th percentile amongst his positional peers in terms of ball progression.

Like Villareal, United also failed to qualify for the Champions League and this could prove to be a stumbling block in their pursuit of the 25-year-old as Chelsea and Manchester City are also thought to be keen on a move.