Jose Mourinho’s AS Roma want Manchester United defender

ROME, ITALY - JANUARY 20: José Mourinho manager of AS Roma during the Coppa Italia match between AS Roma and US Lecce at Stadio Olimpico on January 20, 2022 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Ivan Romano/Getty Images)
ROME, ITALY - JANUARY 20: José Mourinho manager of AS Roma during the Coppa Italia match between AS Roma and US Lecce at Stadio Olimpico on January 20, 2022 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Ivan Romano/Getty Images)

Manchester United’s defence has been viewed as a weakness for some time now. Even Raphael Varane’s arrival from Real Madrid could not solve their issues at the back last season, while Harry Maguire struggled for form. The Red Devils have made an addition at centre-back this summer though, by bringing in Lisandro Martinez from Ajax.

The Argentine was an absolute standout during his time Ajax under the management of Erik ten Hag and the fans will be hoping that he can replicate that form at Old Trafford as well, despite their being question marks about his size and ability to deal with the physicality of the Premier League.

While a centre-back has arrived at the club, another could be on his way out, as rumours swirl around Eric Bailly.

As reported by the Mirror, AS Roma have stepped up their interest in Bailly. He could be up for grabs this summer for a transfer fee less than £10 million.

AS Roma linked with move for struggling Manchester United defender

Bailly had arrived at Manchester United during Jose Mourinho’s time as the manager of the club. The Portuguese legend is currently managing AS Roma, who he has already led to the UEFA Europa Conference League. Incidentally, he is the last manager to guide the Red Devils to a trophy.

Bailly looks like a top player when on form but his biggest problem has been the fact that he has struggled to remain fit for any considerable length of time.

Following the arrival of Martinez, it is hard to see him getting any significant playing time at Manchester United this season and as a result, a move away from Old Trafford might be the right step.

Having already signed Nemanja Matic, it remains to be seen if Mourinho is able to take another one of his former players to Rome.