Manchester United once again leaked goals at home, succumbing to a 0-2 defeat at the hands of Crystal Palace in the Premier League on Sunday.
Ruben Amorim’s experiment to start with Kobbie Mainoo did not pan out while it is clear that playing traditional full-backs as wingbacks in his system also does not work.
But the biggest disappointment from the defeat was arguably losing Lisandro Martinez to a knee injury which looked like it could be a potential season-ender though further clarity will arrive in the days to come.
New signing Ayden Heaven can play as a natural left-sided centre-back while quite a few others could also do a job there if needed including Victor Lindelof, who recently returned from injury.
Everton want Lindelof
But as per journalist Alex Crook, the Swede is the subject of late interest from a resurgent Everton side and could leave before the deadline should a suitable offer arrive with former United manager David Moyes eyeing reinforcements.
As relayed previously by The Peoples Person, Ruud van Nistelrooy was also interested in the 30-year-old but the centre-back is unlikely to entertain the thought of joining a team fighting a relegation battle.
“They’d probably let Victor Lindelof go if someone came in between now and 11pm on Monday because he’s out of contract at the end of the season.
“I know Ruud van Nistelrooy has looked at him, Everton as well,” Crook said on the talkSPORT Transfer Notebook Podcast.
His contract is up in the summer
Having an experienced head in defence now that Martinez could be out for the long-term might not be the worst call to take with Amorim enjoying a great relationship with his former Benfica teammate.
But INEOS could opt to sell to recoup a small fee given his contract ends in the summer. But it remains to be seen if a fee at all is offered.
Even getting his £120,000 gross per week wages (via capology) off the books could be something the co-owners look at given his importance to Amorim’s plans moving forward.
Lindelof might also opt to stay at Old Trafford as he will have plenty more options to choose from once his contract gets over next summer. His immediate future is expected to be decided on Monday.
Feature image Carl Recine via Getty Images
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Ayantan Chowdhury
Ayantan has worked for 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites but his heart was always set on writing about his favourite club. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25
