United To Launch A Bid For Belgian Star Following Their World Cup Exit
REUTERS/Ints Kalnins
Manchester United are preparing a bid for Tottenham’s Toby Alderweireld.
The Red Devils were quick of the blocks this summer, as they sealed three deals before the World Cup. Brazilian midfielder Fred completed his move from Shakhtar Donetsk to replace Michael Carrick.
Jose Mourinho brought young right-back Diogo Dalot to be an understudy to the aging Antonio Valencia. Last week, United also announced the signing of Lee Grant, which will allow Joel Pereira to pursue loan moves for next season.
Mourinho hasn’t exactly made a signing that will improve the squad yet, however. Most of his key targets were preparing for the tournament in Russia, making it difficult to discuss personal terms.
WATCH: Why Ronaldo Did Not Return To Manchester United
One such targets was Tottenham defender Toby Alderweireld. The Portuguese tactician has been looking for a center-back to field alongside Eric Bailly next season, as Jones and Smalling haven’t been convincing at the back, while Lindelof continues to find it difficult to settle in England.
RELATED:
Manchester United Dubbed As Favourites To Sign England’s World Cup Hero
The United gaffer wants to bring a player who has proven his abilities in the Premier League. Despite being 29, Jose is a fan of Alderweireld, and is keen to bring him to Old Trafford this summer.
United had reportedly made contact with Tottenham before the player left for the World Cup. But Tottenham’s £60 million valuation seemed to too high for the Reds, who intend to pay £50 million.
Now, according to The Express, Manchester United are set to launch talks once again, after Belgium’s loss to France in the semi-finals, which ended their World Cup campaign on Tuesday.
RELATED:
Rio Ferdinand Makes Brilliant Point On ‘£89m’ Pogba After Belgium Win
Tottenham might just allow the defender to leave. Alderweireld has two years left on his contract, but could leave for £25 million next summer, unless he agrees to sign a new deal.
Alderweireld is Mourinho’s top choice, but not his only option this summer. The United gaffer will turn to Raphael Varane or Clement Lenglet if the Belgian fails to move to Old Trafford, with English World Cup sensation Harry Maguire also on the wishlist.
