Manchester United defender Eric Bailly would welcome a reunion with Jose Mourinho at Roma if his playing time is limited under Erik ten Hag next season, Sky Sports’ Dharmesh Sheth reports.
The Ivory Coast international endured a difficult 2021/22 campaign under three different managers. He ended up playing less than 500 minutes of first-team football.
This led to suggestions that he could move on this summer, and it continues to remain the case despite the fact that he was impressive for United during their recent pre-season tour.
Bailly came out with outstanding performances in the second half of friendlies, but Ten Hag was still reluctant to pick him from the starting XI alongside the regular starters.
It is now reported that Roma are interested in signing Bailly. The 28-year-old would consider reuniting with Mourinho at the Giallorossi if a suitable transfer offer is made.
Bailly was Mourinho’s first signing as United’s head coach in 2016.
Man Utd could sell Bailly for the right price
Bailly has earned praise from many fans for his pre-season performances, but United will still be wary of his injury record that has been a concern for the past six seasons.
The Ivorian is capable of standing out with his defensive showing on his day, but has not been able to produce the same level of displays over long periods amid injuries.
Ten Hag may still want to keep him for another season, but he could be below Harry Maguire, Lisandro Martinez, Raphael Varane and Victor Lindelof in the pecking order.
It is unlikely that the centre-back would accept another reduced role with the team. If Roma come up with a suitable bid, it won’t be a surprise if the Red Devils consider it.
Bailly was purchased from Villarreal for £34.2 million six years ago. United are unlikely to get a fee close to that figure, but could be tempted if they receive around £10m.
His potential departure could urge Ten Hag and United to pursue another young centre-back, considering Varane has also had a concerning injury record over the years.
With Phil Jones and Axel Tuanzebe possibly leaving, Ten Hag may have to place his trust on Will Fish, who is highly inexperienced. It remains to be seen how this unfolds.
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