Romano: United have ‘genuine’ interest in £38m PL star whose position they will ‘for sure’ strengthen

Now that Dan Ashworth’s tedious wait to become Manchester United’s new sporting director has come to an end, he – along with INEOS – can finally start getting down to business on the transfer market.

Fans are well aware that numerous positions need bolstering across the summer, some even with more than one signing due to departures, such as Raphael Varane and Anthony Martial.

Similarly, last season’s debilitating injury crisis undoubtedly struck the backline the hardest. The term culminated with Casemiro deputising – and struggling – for his sidelined teammates.

The likes of Diogo Dalot and Aaron Wan-Bissaka were already busy taking turns filling in for long-term absentees Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia, the latter of which missed the entire campaign due to a lengthy knee injury.

Read more: Club president rejects United’s improved £59m bid for ‘vital’ star, but door is not ‘closed’ to ‘negotiations’

Meanwhile, Shaw endured yet another injury-plagued season at Old Trafford, with such woes now carrying over to international duty; he was called up by Gareth Southgate to play a key role for England at the Euros despite being unavailable at the time of selection.

He is yet to feature at the tournament, and should they exit after Saturday’s quarter-final, you’d have to question why on earth the Three Lions staff thought including him was a wise idea.

As such, reinforcing the left-hand side of defence is vital in the coming months, with one mooted target believed to be Milos Kerkez of Bournemouth.

The 20-year-old signed for the Cherries from AZ Alkmaar in July 2023 for a reported £15.5 million. He went on to play an integral role throughout his maiden term in England, starting 22 matches as the side recorded their highest-ever Premier League points tally (48).

Fabrizio Romano has previously claimed that the Hungarian international would cost in the region of £38m to £42m, as the south coast outfit wants to ensure they make their money’s worth if their hands are forced into sanctioning his exit after just a year.

Read more: United initiate contact for £21m Euro 2024 star whose agent says he is ‘ready’ to move to a ‘superior’ club

Romano confirms Kerkez is on INEOS’ shortlist

This week, Romano has shared a brief but fresh update on United’s interest in Kerkez, telling GiveMeSport: “Manchester United’s interest is genuine, so I think Kerkez could be one of the options, but not the only one from what I have heard.

“They are also assessing other options. I think they’re waiting to see what happens with any other opportunities in the market for that position, and then they will make a decision. But left-back is another position they want to cover for this summer, for sure.”