Villarreal appears to be clearing the decks for the departure of Pau Torres to Manchester United after landing two potential replacements for the highly-rated center-back.

The Red Devils are looking to bring in at least three new additions this summer, as they look to close the gap on Premier League champions and bitter rivals Manchester City. Chief among the positions they are looking to strengthen is their central defense, with Torres a top target for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

The United boss wants a new partner for Harry Maguire, with neither Victor Lindelof and Eric Bailly impressing enough to be long-term regular staters.

As reported by Fichajes, Torres, who impressed as Villarreal beat United in the Europa League final, is said to be at the top of Solskjaer’s wishlist.

Having won Europe’s secondary cup competition, the Spanish outfit qualified for the Champions League. That means they are under no immediate pressure to sell, although recent signings hint at the opposite.

Aissa Mandi has arrived from Real Betis on a free, while Villarreal also completed a permanent deal for Juan Foyth. The former Tottenham man played as a right-back on loan last season but is a center-back by trade.

Their signings has prompted Fichajes to claims that the LaLiga side will do business for Torres, at the right price.

The 24-year-old currently has a release clause of around £43m. The report adds that Villarreal will not accept a lower bid for one of their star men.

United will, however, face competition from Real Madrid for the talented center-back. But the Red Devils are in a much better position financially than their Spanish rivals, giving them the edge.