Man Utd poised to launch £35m raid on Barcelona as Jose Mourinho eyes fourth summer arrival

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Man Utd have reportedly set their sights on Barcelona defender Yerry Mina as Jose Mourinho continues to target a new signing for his backline.

It’s questionable as to whether reinforcements are even needed in that department, given the Portuguese tactician already has Eric Bailly, Chris Smalling, Phil Jones, Victor Lindelof and Marcos Rojo at his disposal.

SEE MORE: £70M Man United star asks to leave Red Devils as he eyes up Chelsea transfer

Nevertheless, he seemingly believes he needs more, as The Sun report that the Red Devils will potentially make a £35m bid for Mina, as an alternative to their top target Harry Maguire due to his £60m price-tag.

The 23-year-old joined Barcelona in January, but he made just six appearances in all competitions as he struggled to settle and establish himself in the line-up under Ernesto Valverde.

Given he was adapting to European football and the Barcelona style of play, coupled with the pressure to dislodge either Gerard Pique or Samuel Umtiti, it was arguably understandable that he would struggle.

In turn, should Barcelona opt to sell him, it could be perceived as being harsh and too premature, particularly after he impressed at the World Cup in Russia earlier this summer, scoring three goals and shining in the Colombia defence.

However, as per the Sun, he could be offered the chance to start afresh and be given a new challenge at Man Utd, which will come with its own question marks as he’ll have to adapt to another new league in the space of a year.

It remains to be seen if a deal is made, but given Barcelona signed Clement Lenglet this summer, the future for Mina at the Nou Camp perhaps looks bleak as he has merely fallen down the pecking order.

Should United secure a deal, Mina would become their fourth signing of the summer with Mourinho already seeing Lee Grant, Diogo Dalot and Fred moving to Old Trafford as he looks to mastermind an improvement this season to close the gap on champions Man City and avoid being left trophy less again.

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