Manchester United ready to trigger €25m release clause to sign Argentinian star

Adding at least one centre-back to the ranks will be high on Manchester United’s list of priorities this summer, with that department, in particular, looking weak going into the transfer window.

Raphael Varane will leave the club upon the expiry of his contract this summer, with the FA Cup final on Saturday being his final game.

Jonny Evans is also out of contract and despite making 29 appearances this season, it is unlikely that his stay will be extended but that could change depending on how successful United are in strengthening the area.

There are also question marks over the futures of both Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof, with Lisandro Martinez’s fitness also being a cause for concern.

Juventus centre-back Gleison Bremer is one of the players to have been linked with a move but now, there are reports pairing the Reds with exciting Argentinian prospect Aaron Anselmino.

The Boca Juniours teenager is the latest South American talent to catch the eye of some of Europe’s biggest clubs, with reports claiming United and Chelsea are both keen on bringing him to Europe.

That’s according to Argentinian outlets Planet Boca Juniors and El Crack Deportivo Noticias, via Sport Witness, who say that United have been tracking the centre-back since the turn of the year and that Erik ten Hag has been convinced by the youngster’s qualities.

It’s stated that United are aware of Chelsea’s interest and are adamant they need to press ahead with triggering the defender’s release clause to win the race, with €25m seen as enough to secure Anselmino’s services. Anselmino has four years remaining on his contract at Boca Juniors and has recently been nursing an injury.

There are, however, doubts over whether Ten Hag will be leading the club through this summer’s transfer window, with the Dutchman’s position as manager under threat.

It remains to be seen whether INEOS back the manager or if another route is preferred, with reports as late as earlier on Thursday claiming former Reds coach Kieran McKenna has emerged as a target for the club.