Andersen linked with summer Prem switch

UNITED are reportedly looking at on-loan Fulham defender Joachim Andersen as a summer recruit.

The Lyon centre-back has impressed at the heart of the Cottagers’ defence. MEN Sport understands United are prioritising a move for Erling Haaland and a centre-back in the summer window, with Pau Torres and Ben White two defenders of interest.

Andersen will return to Lyon in the summer but his long-term future remains in doubt, further complicated by Fulham’s battle to avoid an immediate return to the Championship.

The 24-year-old has been a mainstay in the Fulham defence after overcoming an injury early on in the season, making 25 appearances in total.

Despite only being on loan, Andersen has captained Fulham for most of the season in the absence of Tom Cairney.

Speaking at the start of 2021, Andersen declared he would like to stay in the Premier League beyond his loan spell.

“The Premier League is the world’s biggest showcase,” he said. “If you do well here, lots of opportunities will probably open up, which was also one of the reasons why I chose the Premier League.

“Whether it is in Lyon, in Fulham or at another club, we’ll have to look at that this summer.”

According to their latest financial reports, Lyon lost over £30million last year. With interest in several key players such as Houssem Aouar and Memphis Depay, who is likely to leave for free, they could be willing to part with Andersen for £25million.