United take final call on their pursuit of South American behemoth amid interest from Newcastle and European giants – report

Various claims are circulating about what Manchester United plan to do this summer. A top midfielder is widely expected to arrive, and a left winger is firmly on the agenda. Yet the question remains: could the Red Devils also move for a centre-back? Links to defenders such as Murillo and Marcos Senesi have emerged in recent weeks, but Sport Boom has dropped an intriguing update about United’s defensive plans. Senesi transfer truth and United’s defensive plan The UK outlet, whilst covering the links to Senesi, suggests it is unlikely United will pursue a defensive signing. That stance is made clear in their Senesi update, where they reveal: “A link-up with fellow countryman Lisandro Martinez may sound appealing [for Senesi]. “However, United are blessed with central defenders, including youngsters Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven, and are expected to offer Harry Maguire another 12-month contract. So, Senesi will miss out on joining the Red Devils, but another United, Newcastle, are strong favourite for his signature.” A big miss or not? United’s decision to withdraw from the Senesi race will leave many of their supporters baffled. The 28-year-old centre back is undoubtedly one of the finest centre-backs in the Premier League. Blessed with a cultured left foot, the AFC Bournemouth star is admired for his tenacious defending, high-volume interceptions, and ability to dictate play from the back; qualities that would have made him a perfect deputy for his fellow Argentine Lisandro Martinez. Beyond that, even if Harry Maguire does stay, a Senesi signing would have provided the perfect succession plan for when the Englishman eventually leaves. But now, instead, United will watch from the sidelines as Newcastle and European heavyweights like Napoli and AC Milan battle for his signature, with these clubs circling knowing he becomes a free agent this summer. Nevertheless, with no Senesi or Murillo arriving, United do have exciting defensive talent coming through the ranks. Indeed, bringing in another centre back at this stage could well have hindered the development of both Ayden Heaven and Leny Yoro. Featured image Eddie Keogh via Getty Image The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Daniel Onguko Dan is a writer with The Peoples Person, an avid Manchester United fan whose passion for the Red Devils evolved into writing about them. He was introduced to United back in 2008, and his love for the club has continued to grow ever since. Like every other United fan, he believes the club will soon return to its rightful place and strives to reflect that belief in his writing. While he has also written about other Premier League sides, including Arsenal for Just Arsenal and The Arsenal Analysis Blogspot, Dan lives and breathes Manchester United.