Man Utd weighing up £30m French youngster as Maguire backup plan

Manchester United have lined up Monaco’s French U19 defender Benoit Badiashile if they are unable to sign Harry Maguire, according to reports in France.

Despite having several problems in the position last season, United are yet to add a new centre-back to their squad this summer, with their only signings so far being Daniel James and Aaron Wan-Bissaka.

Having seemingly been priced out of moves for Kalidou Koulibaly or Ruben Dias, and with Toby Alderweireld no longer a target, United have turned their attentions towards Leicester City’s Maguire as their priority for the role.

However, Leicester are in no hurry to sell the England man, amid reports they have set his asking price at a mammoth £90m with little room for compromise. Therefore, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer may have to consider alternatives – and according to L’Equipe, Badiashile is a prime candidate.

The 18-year-old had a breakthrough year for Monaco last season, making 26 appearances in all competitions and debuting for the French U19 side.

Badiashile is reportedly valued around the £30m mark, having been tracked by United for a couple of years. Wolves and Valencia are also interested, and could rival the Red Devils for his signature.

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