Van Gaal makes defence priority for United’s January shopping.
Manchester United are eager to strengthen in defence this January as they put five centre-backs on their shopping list for the next transfer window, according to the Daily Express.
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The Red Devils have had a shaky start to the season with some unconvincing defensive displays, and Louis van Gaal looks ready to spend big to bring in one or more new additions in that position.
United spent heavily on attacking players over the summer, and while this list is not made up entirely of defenders, it is clear that van Gaal now feels he needs to switch his focus to that part of the pitch.
It remains to be seen if all of these players will be brought in, but United’s six-man wish-list looks to have been revealed as the following:
1) Mats Hummels (Borussia Dortmund)
One of the best central defenders in the world, Borussia Dortmund star Mats Hummels has long been linked with a move to Old Trafford and is on their radar again as January approaches, as he would surely be the best possible signing for the club at this moment in time.
2) Benedikt Howedes (Schalke)
Another fine centre-back currently playing in the Bundesliga, Schalke’s Benedikt Howedes is being linked with a move to United this January, and he could make a useful addition due to his ability to play several different roles in the back four.
3) Winston Reid (West Ham United)
One of the most solid defenders in the Premier League, West Ham United’s Winston Reid has also caught van Gaal’s eye and could be an option for the Red Devils when the transfer window opens for business this winter.
4) Ezequiel Garay (Zenit Saint Petersburg)
Linked with United many times in the past, Ezequiel Garay is on United’s radar again this January despite only joining Russian giants Zenit Saint Petersburg from Benfica this season.
5) Aymeric Laporte (Athletic Bilbao)
An outstanding young defender, Aymeric Laporte is also on United’s agenda for January and could join his old team-mate Ander Herrera in swapping Athletic Bilbao for a move to Old Trafford.
6) Julian Draxler (Schalke)
Another top player to strengthen United’s attack, Schalke’s young playmaker Julian Draxler could be an exciting transfer target for the club this January, though he would no doubt be expensive.