Three underrated defenders Manchester United should sign in the summer
By Bence Bocsak
Manchester United are on the lookout for defenders in the summer as they look to bolster their backline and one of this three could be the perfect options.
A stable and strong defence is essential for the success of any football team. Former Manchester United coach, Sir Alex Ferguson once famously declared that ‘attack wins you games, defence wins you titles.’
It is a sage remark and one that has resonated strongly at Old Trafford over the years.
Since the departure of Sir Alex Ferguson, the defence has often been neglected at Manchester United with previous managers more concerned about bringing in exciting attacking talent. However, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is clearly attempting to lay down the key foundations once again. The Norwegian brought in Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Harry Maguire in the summer and has been linked with a sensational move for Kalidou Koulibaly.
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However, the Senegalese defender would be a hefty purchase and so we have compiled a list of players who could be better and cheaper alternatives for the Red Devils.
Without a further ado here are five young underrated centre backs, United should sign in the summer.
1. Pau Torres
Nationality: Spanish
Height: 1.91m
Age: 23
Games played in 19/20: 26
Goals scored in 19/20: 1
The lanky centre back has been a revelation in La Liga this season. Pau Torres might have emerged into senior football at a latter stage than most, however he has taken the transition with aplomb.
Pau Torres, has slowly made his progress through the ranks at Villareal. He was a core part of their B side for several seasons before making the loan move to Malaga in the Spanish second division last season.
Torres caught the eye there with some smart and consistent performances. The young Spanish centre back only missed four senior games.
He was given his opportunity at the beginning of the current season and Torres hasn’t looked back since then.
Pau Torres has established himself as one of the most promising centre backs in La Liga. He even earned himself a call-up to Spain’s senior side and managed to score on his debut against Malta.
Torres’ playing style is similar to former Manchester United centre back Gerard Pique due to his astute reading of the game.
He would be a great pick-up by United and he’d probably be a lot cheaper than Koulibably.