Manchester United, Tottenham looking at versatile Barcelona star Andreas Christensen | OneFootball

Manchester United have already signed two centre-backs in Leny Yoro and Matthijs de Ligt but they keep getting linked with defenders as the transfer window enters the last 10 days.

The club’s first choice target was Jarrad Branthwaite but Everton rejected both of United’s bids and have held firm, refusing to compromise even in the face of a takeover failure.

United will try again in January or next summer to land the England international whose ability to play on the left-side of the defence was a major attraction for Erik ten Hag due to the lack of alternatives for Lisandro Martinez.

But there are gaps to fill in defensive midfield as well with a deal with Paris Saint-Germain for Manuel Ugarte inching ever closer. Unless player sales take place, a loan deal might be the best way to land the Uruguayan.

Christensen a target

Interestingly, Spanish outlet Sport have claimed Andreas Christensen of Barcelona could become a target in the final days of the window with the Catalans open to a sale.

The Dane spent five years at Chelsea and has considerable experience of playing in the Premier League, something that INEOS want from their signings.

The Champions League winner can play as the left-sided centre-half due to his technical ability and interestingly, has been utilised as a defensive midfielder in the last two seasons in Spain, making him a versatile fit.

He could plug multiple gaps in the squad if needed with Barca asking for €25 million from his sale. Newcastle were on the teams looking at the 28-year-old but FFP concerns mean they might not manage to stump up the money.

Tottenham Hotspur are another team that are eyeing the former Chelsea star with the player waiting for the right project.

“Apart from Ansu Fati, who Barcelona does not count on, the door will be opened for a centre-back to leave. And the two candidates are Andreas Christensen and Eric Garcia.

“In recent days, rumours have focused on Christensen. The Danish player, who was not a starter at Mestalla, wants to play as a centre-back and knows that he is not guaranteed a starting spot there.

Versatile option

“For now there have been inquiries from several clubs, but Christensen would only leave if he received an offer from a top-level project. Barça would be willing to sell him for a minimum of 25 million euros.

“Christensen has been in Newcastle’s sights in the past, but the English club are having many financial fair play problems. Tottenham and Manchester United are on the lookout in these last days of the transfer market to see if the Dane opens the door.”

Christensen’s transfer only makes sense as a backup option and not as a starter. With Victor Lindelof expected to stay, United are well-stocked in the heart of the defence.

If Ugarte signs, and with Casemiro staying, United will not need someone like the Dane. It makes very little sense for the club to try and sign him this late on.

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