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Man Utd revive interest in signing Pau Torres

Manchester United have revived their interest in signing Villarreal defender Pau Torres ahead of this summer’s transfer window, Manchester Evening News claims.

The Spaniard was a top target for the Red Devils last summer with suggestions that manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer wanted a left-footed centre-back in the squad.

However, the club eventually decided to sign long-term target Raphael Varane from Real Madrid, but the move has not worked out as planned amid injury concerns.

Hence, the hierarchy are looking to pursue another quality centre-back. They plan to revive their pursuit of Torres, who has a €60 million release clause on his contract.

Torres’ arrival will most likely coincide with the permanent departures of Eric Bailly and Phil Jones, who have barely played over the course of the ongoing campaign.

Our view:

The 25-year-old was a key player for the Yellow Submarines last season. He was instrumental in their run to the Europa League final where they beat the Red Devils through a penalty shoot-out.

The Spaniard has continued to impress this term. While he is not a tough tackler, he has excelled with his concentration. He has averaged 3.3 clearances per game while winning 1.8 aerial duels.

Varane and Harry Maguire are presently the regular centre-backs with Victor Lindelof supporting them. However, United could be eyeing a fourth option, who can provide strong competition for places.

Torres, who recently helped Villarreal reach the Champions League semi-final, could be an ideal fit, but won’t come on the cheap, particularly after his career transformation over the past 20 months.

Villarreal were willing to negotiate a player-plus-cash deal in the past which led to suggestions that Bailly could move the other way. They are now looking for a straight-cash offer for their prized asset.

United could get Torres for lesser than his reported buy-out clause this summer if they are willing to pay a big sum up front. However, there is bound to be plenty of competition for his services.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com