Incoming new Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag plans to make wholesale changes to his side – but will put his immediate focus into the signing of not one, but two, central defenders, according to a source.
The 52-year-old has been trusted by the Red Devils to lead them into a bright new era. Having failed to hit the heights this season, United are turning to the Ajax coach on a deal that makes him the best-paid Dutch coach in Premier League history. Signing an initial three-year deal, Ten Hag’s brief is a simple one…
Indeed, he will be asked to help transform the club’s fortunes, having fallen way behind Manchester City and Liverpool in recent seasons.
Their shortcomings been brutally exposed by arch-rivals Liverpool this season, especially, having lost to a 9-0 ‘aggregate’ scoreline.
Perhaps the biggest problem for Manchester United has been their defensive shoddiness. Having already conceded 51 goals this season, that tally represents their highest goals against in over 40 years.
As such, it’s no shock to see that Ten Hag – following guidance from interim boss Ralf Rangnick – plans to address that as a first task.
One of the major let-downs this season has been the form of captain Harry Maguire in the heart of defence. As an £80m signing, he has struggled to maintain his consistent best in the heart of the Red Devils defence.
In addition, it’s no surprise to see reports emerging that Maguire is on the brink of losing the United armband.
Further down the line, he also may find his entire future at Old Trafford in doubt. That’s certainly an opinion expressed by Roy Keane, who has again recently savaged the United skipper.
Now, according to Italian journalist Rudy Galetti, Ten Hag is targeting not one, but two new centre-halves.
Pau Torres wanted as Raphael Varane partner
He states that Ten Hag is targeting deals for both Pau Torres and Jurrien Timber.
Ajax star Timber has enjoyed an impressive breakthrough season under Ten Hag at…