Manchester United

Manchester United

Premier League • England

Man Utd transfers: Ten Hag closing on long-term Ligue 1 target as trusted source gives update on defender pursuit

Youssouf Fofana and Axel Disasi

Manchester United appear to be nearing the summer signing of Axel Disasi as the defender is said to be eager to move to Old Trafford.

United have been tipped to strengthen their rearguard during the off-season to build on last season’s showing. From missing out on the Champions League, they finished in third spot, securing a return to Europe’s elite club competition. The north-west giants also won silverware in 2022-2023, with the EFL Cup now in the trophy cabinet.

But it is challenging treble-winning Manchester City that is the real target.

Pep Guardiola’s side continue to dominate domestically and they added the Champions League crown to their list of achievements.

United saw their treble of 1999 matched by their neighbours and fans want a return to the very top.

Ten Hag is hoping to achieve those aims and wants new blood before the start of next term.

Disasi is one name they have been linked with for some time. The 25-year-old has shone for Monaco over three seasons and appears ready to step up.

It was reported earlier this month that the France international was ‘one step away’ from joining the club.

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Nothing has happened as yet but trusted transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano is certain the trail has not gone cold.

“They had contact on the player’s side, for sure, for Disasi,” he told GIVEMESPORT.

“From what I’m told, the player would be really excited to make a move to Manchester United.”

United ready to pay the price for Disasi

Having started his professional career with Paris FC, Disasi moved to Reims in 2016.

The centre-back made 53 appearances in all competitions for Les rouges et blancs before switching to Monaco.

The principality outfit paid €13m for his signature and he inked a five-year deal at Stade Louis-II.

And the French club have certainly had their money’s with, with Disasi making 99 Ligue 1 appearances.

He has bagged seven goals but may have kicked his last ball for the club.

It was recently suggested by L’Equipe that the stopper has set his sights on joining United.

There has also been reported interest from Manchester City and Chelsea but it is links to United that are strongest.

And, with Romano now weighing in on the issue, most things point to him wearing red in 2023-2024.

Monaco are asking for a fee in the region of £43m for their star and Manchester United are thought to be happy to pay that amount.

It is obvious that Ted Hag wants the Frenchman on board after making enquiries during the January transfer window.

Nothing happened in the winter but it may now only be a matter of time before a deal goes through.

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