New United boss spends big on new-look defence.
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Manchester United could be close to unveiling a new-look back four this season with manager Louis van Gaal working on deals for three top-class defensive signings, according to various sources.
The Red Devils have seen big names such as Rio Ferdinand, Nemanja Vidic and Patrice Evra leave Old Trafford this summer after long careers with the club, and while van Gaal himself will have a difficult enough job replacing Sir Alex Ferguson, he has also been tasked with ushering in a new generation of players.
Still, the Dutchman seems to have found three superb signings to bolster his defensive options, with around £50m likely to be spent on bringing in these new additions at the back.
3) Thomas Vermaelen (Arsenal)
Manchester United remain firmly in the hunt for in-demand Arsenal defender Thomas Vermaelen, despite interest from Barcelona and a desire from the Gunners to sell their captain abroad if possible. Still, talks remain ongoing and the Red Devils are hoping to tie up a deal for the £10m-rated Belgian international, whose aggression and leadership at the back make him an ideal like-for-like replacement for the departing Nemanja Vidic.
2) Daley Blind (Ajax)
Another player who would likely cost around £10m, Daley Blind is a top target for Louis van Gaal after impressing the new United boss during the Netherlands’ World Cup campaign this summer. Liverpool were also been linked with the 24-year-old earlier this summer, and he looks a highly useful signing due to his versatility and quality in a number of different positions. Able to play at centre-back, left-back and even defensive midfield, it is not yet clear where Blind would find himself playing at Old Trafford, but he would provide the club with the kind of depth they need after seeing so many of their squad in that area leave this summer.
1) Mehdi Benatia (AS Roma)
Widely regarded as one of Europe’s best centre-backs at the moment, Roma defender Mehdi Benatia could be a £30m target for Manchester United as part of a double swoop with Thomas Vermaelen. The Moroccan international was part of Serie A’s most solid defence last season, helping Roma to a surprise finish of second place in the Italian top flight. There’s no doubt he would make a major difference to United’s title hopes this season if they could bring him in, and alongside Vermaelen and Blind he would form part of an immense-looking back four built by van Gaal.