Man Utd chiefs confident Solskjaer back-up can emulate two club legends

Axel Tuanzebe, Timothy Fosu-Mensah Man Utd TEAMtalk

Manchester United chiefs are confident that defender Axel Tuanzebe can reach the heights similar to those enjoyed by club legends Nemanja Vidic and Rio Ferdinand, according to a report.

Tuanzebe made his United debut under former manager Louis van Gaal in January 2017, during an FA Cup tie.

After spending half of the 2017/18 season at Old Trafford, he joined Aston Villa in successive loans until last summer.

This season, United kept him in Manchester and, while he has made 10 appearances, injury has hampered his progress. Indeed, he is currently on the sidelines and will return in September.

According to The Athletic, however, Red Devils bosses are sure the 22-year-old will have a stellar career. Those behind the scenes feel if he can keep fit, he can become “absolute top-class”.

The report comes amid speculation that United want to sign another centre-back in the upcoming transfer market.

Pictures showed Ole Gunnar Solskjaer allegedly informing Bournemouth defender Nathan Ake that he would like to sign a player of his stature, something the manager has rebuked.

Solskjaer said when asked about the reported comments: “I’ve got seven centre-backs, so I don’t know where that’s come from. We’re fine.”

As well as Ake, further speculation claims Roma’s Alessio Romagnoli and Villa’s Tyrone Mings are targets.

United could reshuffle their defence in the coming months, with two permanent exits on the cards. Marcos Rojo joined Estudiantes on loan in January and the Argentina-based club want an extension.

Chris Smalling is in a similar position, having enjoyed his time with Roma this term.

MAN UTD EXIT ON CARDS FOR LINGARD?

Another player who could leave Old Trafford before next season is midfielder Jesse Lingard.

The England international has fallen out of favour under Solskjaer due to the emergence of Bruno Fernandes and Paul Pogba’s return to fitness.

Indeed, previous reports claimed West Ham want to sign Lingard if they avoid relegation.

Now, another report says West Brom will target a move should they earn promotion to the top flight.

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