Ralf Rangnick will reportedly make defensive improvements his No 1 priority – and has four January targets at Man Utd as a result.
Rangnick, 63, was in the stands to watch United defeat Arsenal 3-2 at Old Trafford on Thursday night. It was a result which the new man thought could well have ended in a 3-3 draw, but he was grateful to take the points in Michael Carrick’s last game in caretaker charge.
United conceded twice against the Gunners – a fact that was highlighted by Rangnick as an area to improve on. While, the German, who will take charge of the team against Crystal Palace on Sunday, says he is looking for more “balance” in the team.
Rangnick’s main target this season will be to secure a top-four finish. They are battling West Ham, Arsenal and Tottenham in what is likely to be a keenly-fought fight.
And Rangnick knows his side need more solid options in the heart of defence if they are to achieve that aim.
As such, the Daily Express has identified four players Rangnick will target.
Top of his list is likely to be Sevilla’s Jules Kounde. The Frenchman is on Chelsea’s list of targets and has previously been linked with United.
A huge release clause of £68m, though, makes any move for Kounde a costly one.
Instead, the Express claims Rangnick could also move for Sven Botman. The Lille defender has been watched by Tottenham and Liverpool previously.
The paper also names Matthijs De Ligt as a potential option.
The Dutchman was again on United’s radar prior to his move to Juventus. He again though would cost around £60m were United to rekindle their interest.
A cheaper option, however, could be Josko Gvardiol.
The Croatian has impressed at RB Leipzig since signing over the summer. Still only 19, Gvardiol can also play at left-back and has become a regular under Jesse Marsch.
He would likely cost around £40m, though Leipzig have shown in the past they are willing to discuss sales of their top stars.