United preparing offer to sign technically gifted 21-yo Belgian “as soon as possible” – report

Manchester United are keen on strengthening their backline in January.

United released Jonny Evans and Victor Lindelof at the end of last season and didn’t bring in a new centre-back in the summer.

Ruben Amorim is wedded to his 3-4-3 system, which features three defenders. As such, United may have taken a risk overlooking the department in favour of transforming their attack.

However, a report suggests the Red Devils want to address their backline in the winter transfer window.

Manchester United determined to sign Debast

According to Fichajes, United are “preparing an offer of around €40 million” to sign Zeno Debast from Sporting CP.

Signed from Anderlecht in 2024 under Amorim, Sporting’s €15m signing has quickly become their leader at the back.

The 6ft 3in defender has the physicality to dominate in the air. Further, Debast is surprisingly mobile and quick, making him an ideal option to play out wide in a back three.

The 21-year-old is also technically gifted, capable of making line breaking passes under pressure. At Old Trafford, only Lisandro Martinez has the technical prowess to do this on a regular basis. However, the Argentine has struggled to remain fit.

Man United trying to beat rivals to the punch

Debast’s performances in Lisbon has not gone “unnoticed” at United, who are willing to test Sporting’s resolve.

The Spanish outlet claim Debast is one of United’s priority targets.

The Premier League giants reportedly want to finalise his signing “as soon as possible” to avoid any competition from other clubs as his stock his rising rapidly. 

Having said that, Sporting are reluctant to lose the Belgian mid-season. His release clause stands at €80m, making United’s pursuit very tricky.

Featured image Gualter Fatia via Getty Images

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