Manchester United have identified Bayern Munich defender Benjamin Pavard as their top target to bolster the central defensive department, according to L’Equipe.
The Red Devils are likely to reinforce their defensive options this summer and they have been regularly linked with Napoli star Kim Min-jae over the past few weeks.
However, L’Equipe claim that Pavard is at the top of United’s list for central defenders. The Red Devils have already taken ‘concrete steps’ to sign the World Cup winner.
Pavard is set to enter the final year of his Bayern contract in July and he has turned down a renewal.
Barcelona have also been linked with the 27-year-old, who wants to play in his preferred centre-back role.
Pavard would be a good signing for Man Utd
Pavard was a regular centre-back during his time at Stuttgart but since his move to Bayern four years ago, he has largely operated from the right side of the backline.
This is now likely to pave the way for his departure. The Frenchman has no plans to prolong his stay at Bayern without the assurance of playing as a central defender.
In our view, Pavard would be a good acquisition for United. The 48-cap international could come in as a replacement for Harry Maguire, who is likely to be sold this summer.
He is currently valued at £30 million by Transfermarkt and United could easily recoup the fee with the sale of Maguire. The England star is on the radar of West Ham United, Inter Milan and Roma.
Pavard can’t be considered as a big upgrade but would be a quality signing. He has completed 90% of his passes in Bundesliga this season, winning 2.3 tackles and five duels per game.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com
