Manchester United have received a huge boost in their quest to sign Juventus centre-back Merih Demiral this summer, according to Tutto Atalanta.
The Turkish international is viewed as a sellable asset by the Old Lady to boost their transfer kitty after losing Paulo Dybala and Giorgio Chiellini on free transfers. He’s been on loan with Atalanta, and they have first refusal on a deal for Demiral.
The way the transfer would work would be akin to Tottenham’s deal for Christian Romero, in which Atalanta bought the player and immediately sold him on as they have a clause in place.
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Real Madrid are also keen on Demiral, and both clubs have reportedly agreed a deal in principle with the defender.
United have had a multitude of defensive issues this campaign, recording their worst campaign points-wise in Premier League history with a goal difference of 0.
Harry Maguire has had a torrid season for the Red Devils, with Victor Lindelof continuing to underwhelm his enormous expectation.
Phil Jones is also leaving the club after over a decade of service, so central defence is going to be a key area for Erik ten Hag to rectify in his first summer window.
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And Demiral is statistically better than Raphael Varane in this campaign, according to FBRef’s percentile system.
He made 42 appearances this campaign for the Bergamo-based outfit, including 28 in the Serie A and six in the Champions League and Europa League respectively
His ability to pressure the opposition has been his biggest asset this year, putting up an astonishing average of 14.93 pressures per 90, in comparison to Varane’s 8.8.
It seems like he could be on his way to Old Trafford, and he may not be the only defensive addition this window.
Featured Image Credit: AlamyTopics: Juventus, Manchester United, Transfers