Manchester United could enter the transfer market for a centre-back following Matthijs de Ligt’s back surgery this month.
De Ligt had been struggling with a back issue since November last year. The Dutchman had a setback in February and has now undergone a procedure to rectify the concern.
The Red Devils have confirmed that he will be sidelined until the early stages of the 2026/27 season. The club may handle him with extra caution in the first half of the campaign.
With United back in the Champions League, they need more depth and quality in central defence to provide cover for injuries, which have become a recurring issue at the club in the last few years.
Harry Maguire, Leny Yoro, Lisandro Martinez and Ayden Heaven are the fit solutions, but we believe the hierarchy should pursue another cost-effective signing. David Affengruber would be a perfect fit.
The Austrian has enjoyed a standout campaign with Elche, who are presently 17th in La Liga.
The 25-year-old has excelled with his all-round attributes as a right centre-back. He has completed 88 percent of his passes and won an impressive 65 percent of his ground and aerial duels.
Affengruber has also won two tackles per game alongside four recoveries and five clearances. He has a good physical and aerial presence and looks well-suited for Premier League football.
His current contract with Elche expires in June 2027, and Mundo Deportivo have claimed that he could be sold for an affordable fee of just £18 million during the upcoming summer transfer window.
Atletico Madrid are said to be frontrunners due to their good relationship with Elche. They signed Rodrigo Mendoza this year, and previously sold German Valera and Alejandro Iturbe the other way.
United must be proactive in the pursuit of Affengruber to beat Atletico to his services.
Stats from Sofascore.com
