Villarreal centre-back Pau Torres has reportedly emerged as the ideal defensive target for new Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag.

The Red Devils need additions all across the pitch if they are to get their new project off the ground. Centre-back is a key area, with the futures of Eric Bailly and Phil Jones reportedly unclear.

As a result, a number of players have supposedly popped up on Ten Hag’s radar for his first transfer window in charge.

According to Marca, though, the Dutch coach believes that Spanish centre-back Torres would be ‘perfect’ for his plans.

Ten Hag wants a centre-back who is confident with the ball at their feet and believes the 25-year-old fits the bill.

What’s more, a deal is reportedly within much easier reach than it was last summer as he is showing more willingness to leave.

Torres refused to leave Villarreal last summer after they won the Europa League final against Man Utd, subsequently taking their place in this season’s Champions League.

However, Villarreal finished seventh in La Liga this time around. They will therefore only be playing Europa Conference League football next term.

Torres is consequently more open than he was over a move away from Villarreal.

Nevertheless, he will not come cheap. Marca claims that he would cost Man Utd €50million (£42million), which the Red Devils are willing to spend.

Torres has two years left on his contract and so a decision would soon be due over his future anyway.

Overall, Torres has made 134 outings for Villarreal and, at 25, has even more room to develop if he moved to the Premier League.

He is also a 17-cap Spain international and is sure to enjoy more success on the international stage.