United plotting move for Spanish defender to replace Martinez, €40m to get deal over line – report

Manchester United are among the clubs interested in signing Athletic Club centre-back Dani Vivian, as per reports.

Having strengthened their wing-back area with the signing of Patrick Dorgu in the winter window, United are expected to spend big on reinforcing their attack in the summer.

However, Lisandro Martinez’s lengthy lay-off because of a knee injury could hand INEOS a new transfer headache amid their financial fair play concerns.

It remains unclear whether the United board would look to sign a marquee central defender or explore the market for a stop-gap solution. Considering Martinez’s fitness issues, the Red Devils would be better off bringing in a top defender.

A report in Spain has linked the Premier League giants with one of the country’s latest defensive stars.

According to Fichajes, United are interested in signing Vivian as they see him as a “key piece” to strengthen their backline for next season.

The 25-year-old has enjoyed a promising last 12 months in Bilbao under Ernest Valverde, impressing fans and pundits alike with his ball-carrying and progressive passes.

Martinez’s line-breaking passes play a significant role in Amorim’s side’s build-up play and Vivian is certainly capable of replicating the same. Further, he is more solid and composed than the Argentine out of possession.

The Athletic star was handed his Spain debut in March 2024 and has earned eight caps so far.

Vivian is tied to Athletic until the summer of 2032. However, his contract includes a release clause worth €40 million.

When it comes to Los Leones’ players, there’s little room for negotiations and Vivian’s suitors would have to, in all likelihood, trigger the clause to get the deal over the line.

Apart from United, Liverpool, and Atletico Madrid are also keen on the Spaniard, who could be at the centre of a scramble for his signature in the summer.

Feature image Juan Manuel Serrano Arce via Getty Images

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