Manchester United are among the clubs keen on Athletic Club’s star defender, Dani Vivian.
Vivian was one of the standout defenders in La Liga last term, earning plaudits for his adventurous and tenacious style of defending in the opposition’s half. The 26-year-old’s agility and speed has made him Ernesto Valverde’s most trusted defender in Bilbao.
He was linked with the likes of United heading into the last summer transfer window, but Athletic managed to keep hold of their key player.
However, his affordable release clause has kept a number of Premier League clubs interested in his services, with a view to a January or next summer move.
Premier League clubs open to triggering Dani Vivian’s release clause
According to Fichajes, United, Newcastle and Aston Villa are all following Vivian.
It is understood the Premier League trio are willing to pay his €40 million release clause, as they consider the figure a “bargain” for a player of his quality.
However, Athletic have no desire to part ways with the Spain international, who is contracted to the club until 2032.
As such, his suitors would have to pay the €40m fee in one go, which isn’t always easy to do due to PSR concerns.
Man United could sign a new defender in the near future
United didn’t sign a centre-back in the recently closed summer transfer window despite releasing Jonny Evans and Victor Lindelof upon the expiration of their contracts at the end of last campaign.
However, Ruben Amorim, who is wedded to his 3-4-3 formation, may need a new central defender sooner rather than later.
Recently, The Peoples Person relayed a report claiming Harry Maguire “would consider” a move to Saudi Arabia next summer.
Accordingly, Vivian could prove to be a shrewd signing for Amorim, who highly values mobility in his wide centre-backs.
Feature image Juan Manuel Serrano Arce via Getty Images
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Vishal Singh
Vishal has worked in the football media industry for over six years, planning, writing, and editing content for several major outlets. Currently a writer at The Peoples Person, he covers Manchester United — a club he has been religiously following and supporting since 2012. Big fan of ball-playing centre-backs and Harry Maguire’s knee-slide celebration!
