Man Utd contact Monaco over surprise deal for defender, a January move is still possible

Manchester United have made contact with Monaco defender Axel Disasi, according to reports.

The 24-year-old has played for Monaco since 2020, making 108 appearances for the Ligue 1 side, chipping in with 10 goals and four assists in the process.

He was also a part of France's 2022 World Cup squad, featuring three times for Les Bleus in Qatar.

Disasi started his career at Ligue 2 side Paris FC, before making the switch to Reims where he spent three seasons. The defender moved to Monaco in 2020, gaining experience of Champions League and Europa League football.

Despite operating primarily at centre-back, Disasi can also play at right-back, which is thought to appeal to Erik ten Hag.

Man Utd approach Monaco

Telefoot report that the Red Devils have approached Monaco to discuss the Frenchman's availability this winter, whilst a summer move is also said to be on the cards.

Although United appear to have plenty of options in central defence, Phil Jones is expected to leave on a free this summer. Meanwhile, Alex Tuanzebe has been linked with a loan move this January.

Harry Maguire also seems to have lost his place under Erik ten Hag, with the England international rumoured with an exit in favour of regular first team football.

As a result, United could be looking for a fourth centre-back to provide competition for Lisandro Martinez, Raphael Varane and Victor Lindelof.

Disasi's versatility would also solve Ten Hag's problems at right-back, with Aaron Wan-Bissaka's future currently up in the air.

The Dutchman has only made two additions this January, bringing in striker Wout Weghorst and goalkeeper Jack Butland on loan.

Weghorst notched his first goal for the club on Wednesday, scoring in United's 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest in the EFL Cup semi-final.

However, The Mail claim that another forward could be on his way to Old Trafford before the transfer deadline slams shut.

Ten Hag recently told reporters: "I think as Manchester United you always have to look for solutions, and always you have to look for better and that is what we will do."

"We will be doing our research and if there are opportunities, we have to go for it."