Man Utd identify new target in Varane replacement hunt

Cameron Smith

24 Mar 2024 09:39 CDT
3 min read

Raphael Varane, Man Utd, 2023/24 — © IMAGO

Manchester United are reportedly interested in pursuing a deal for Dayot Upamecano if Bayern Munich decide to sell the France international this summer.

Article continues under the video

Upamecano, 25, joined the Bavarians from RB Leipzig back in 2021 and he has emerged as one of their most prized assets since moving to the Allianz Arena.

However, early suggestions have indicated that Bayern may be willing to offload Upamecano for the right price during the upcoming transfer window.

The Frenchman’s contract with the reigning Bundesliga champions runs until 2026, meaning this summer is their last opportunity to sell him for maximum value unless he signs a new deal.

The ex-Leipzig star has been an unused substitute in Bayern’s past two league games, with Thomas Tuchel opting for a centre-back partnership of Eric Dier and Matthijs de Ligt, despite the fact that Upamecano and Kim Min-jae have been first-choice for the majority of the season.

Kim has also been named on the bench in recent weeks and both players have been tentatively linked with summer exits as a result.

Former Napoli defender Kim has emerged as a key target for Serie A giants Inter Milan, while Man Utd are interested in signing Upamecano, according to CaughtOffside.

Dayot Upamecano to Man Utd?

© IMAGO - Dayot Upamecano, Bayern Munich

Man Utd are actively chasing a new centre-back this summer as Erik ten Hag looks to strengthen his backline amid Raphael Varane’s uncertain future at the club and Lisandro Martinez’s injury problems.

FootballTransfers understand that Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite is a priority target for the upcoming window, although Sean Dyche’s side are set to demand a fee of roughly €80 million for the Englishman.

Jean-Clair Todibo has also been linked, while CaughtOffside have reported that Upamecano could be of interest if he pushed for a move away and Bayern are happy to offload him.