Manchester United could reportedly target Sevilla centre-back Jules Kounde as a potential replacement for club captain Harry Maguire, according to a surprise report.
Man United’s defensive line was somewhat of a shambles prior to Maguire’s big-money move from Leicester City. The England international has steadied the ship and looks set to form a formidable partnership with centre-back superstar Raphael Varane.
That said, a report by Fichajes goes as far as claiming that Maguire might not even be a starter at Old Trafford come the start of next season, with the club understood to be seeking a long-term, alternative partner for Varane.
The report, which really ought to be taken with a pinch of salt as a result of that claim alone, suggests that Sevilla centre-back Jules Kounde, who plays with Varane for France, could be the man for Man United.
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As was reported by the Guardian on the final day of August, Chelsea tried and failed to get Kounde through the door in the summer. It’d be a surprise if the champions of Europe had completely abandoned their interest in the 22-year-old.
We’d expect Chelsea to return to the race to sign Kounde, but it seems highly unlikely that they’ll be joined by Premier League rivals Manchester United, especially at the expense of a player as influential as Maguire.