PSG plotting move for player that Ten Hag didn't want at Manchester United

Paris-Saint Germain are reportedly plotting a move for Villarreal defender Pau Torres, after he was rejected by Erik ten Hag.

United were rumoured with a move for Torres last summer. However, Ten Hag overruled the board in order to strike a deal with Lisandro Martinez instead, claim the Daily Mail.

Old Trafford scouts had recommended the club pursue Torres, but the United boss allegedly persuaded the hierarchy to change their focus to his former player.

Martinez played under Ten Hag for three seasons at Ajax, and has quickly established himself as one of the cornerstones of United's squad.

PSG plot move for Torres

After missing out on a move to the Premier League, Torres has a new set of admirers in the shape of European giants PSG, profess Football Espana.

The Ligue 1 club are expecting a major overhaul in the summer transfer market, with veteran defender Sergio Ramos expected to depart.

Meanwhile, Torres has been identified as a potential replacement. The 26-year-old helped Villarreal beat Manchester United in the Europa League final during the 2020/21 campaign.

He was also a part of Spain's World Cup squad in Qatar, where he started his country's 2-1 defeat to Japan which saw them knocked out of the tournament.

PSG linked with Maguire

In addition to Torres, PSG have been rumoured with a move for Red Devils' centre back Harry Maguire.

The England international has lost his place in the side this season, with Ten Hag favouring Raphael Varane and Martinez in the heart of defence.

The Sun report that PSG were keen on signing the 30-year-old in in January, but Ten Hag was keen for him to stay at United.

It is thought that PSG would need to match Maguire's £200,000-a-week wages, which is not expected to be an issue.

However, The Times state that the club need to reduce their wage bill by 30 per cent this summer due to FFP, indicating a deal for the experienced defender could prove tricky.

Topics: Manchester United, Lisandro Martinez, Erik Ten Hag, Paris Saint-Germain, Football, Premier League, Ligue 1, Transfers

Joe Adams

Joe is a Journalist for SPORTbible with a primary focus on football. He has previously covered a number of other sports including boxing, rugby and F1. Wishes he was born left-footed.

@joeadamsjourno