Manchester United will be without Leny Yoro for the next three months, with the centre-back fracturing his metatarsal against Arsenal last weekend.
Yoro, 18, is set to miss at least the team's opening nine Premier League matches of the 2024-25 season, in addition to the early stages of their EFL Cup and Europa League campaigns.
Man United have always been interested in adding two new centre-backs to their squad this summer, but the news surrounding Yoro could see them accelerate their attempts to bring in another player in that area of the field.
With that in mind, Sports Mole looks at three centre-backs that the 20-time English champions could sign in light of the Yoro news.
Matthijs de Ligt (Bayern Munich)
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De Ligt was believed to be close to completing a move to Man United before the club switched their attention to Yoro, and the Netherlands international continues to be linked with a move to Old Trafford.
The 24-year-old has allegedly already agreed personal terms with the Red Devils, and he is said to be prioritising a move to Man United over any other club.
De Ligt has not travelled with the Bayern squad on their pre-season tour of Asia, and Man United could now step up their attempts to sign the Dutchman.
The centre-back has made 73 appearances for Bayern over the last two campaigns, including 30 outings during the 2023-24 campaign.
De Ligt's time at Allianz Arena is seemingly coming to a close, though, and he could now be set for a reunion with his former Ajax head coach Erik ten Hag at Old Trafford.
Jarrad Branthwaite (Everton)
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Branthwaite, 22, remains a target for Man United, but for a deal to be possible, Everton would have to substantially reduce their asking price.
The Red Devils are said to have already failed with two offers for Branthwaite earlier this summer, with Everton thought to want as much as £70m.
A move at that price is not a possibility, but Man United have a firm interest in the Englishman, and Everton's financial situation could see them forced into accepting a lower fee later in the window.
Branthwaite showed his class last season, and it is clear that he has huge admirers at Man United beyond head coach Ten Hag. As it stands, though, it seems more likely that Man United will complete a deal for De Ligt, who is available for around £42m.
Trevoh Chalobah (Chelsea)
© Reuters
There is currently a host of speculation surrounding Chalobah's future, with Man United believed to be keeping a close eye on the centre-back.
The 25-year-old only made 17 appearances for the Blues during the 2024-25 campaign, and he is seemingly available for transfer this summer.
Chelsea are said to be willing to sell Chalobah for around £25m, which would make him an affordable option for the 20-time English champions.
The defender, who has not travelled with his London club to the United States for their pre-season tour, is said to be wanted by a number of Premier League teams.
Chalobah has made 80 appearances for Chelsea in all competitions, including 58 appearances in the Premier League, and he has another four years left to run on his contract at Stamford Bridge.
