Manchester Evening News

Move for Barcelona’s Christense­n rumoured

- By JACK FLINTHAM

UNITED are reportedly weighing up a move for Barcelona defender Andreas Christense­n.

Last year, M.E.N. Sport reported Erik ten Hag had made defence one of his priority positions for improvemen­t in the upcoming transfer windows. United have struggled with defensive injuries this season and Raphael Varane’s future at Old Trafford is in serious doubt.

According to Nacional, United are now contemplat­ing a move for former Chelsea man Christense­n.

The 27-year-old moved to Camp Nou in 2022 and played a key role in the club’s La Liga title win. The Dane continues to feature prominentl­y for Barca but it is understood the Catalan giants could be tempted to offload the centre-back if the right offer is submitted. United are by no means the only club interested in the defender. Tottenham Hotspur are also believed to have asked about Christense­n but the report adds United are willing to submit a higher bid of £25.9m to secure his services.

Elsewhere, the Reds are understood to be pursuing Ecuadorian wonder kid Oscar Zambrano. The 19-year-old defensive midfielder has already made 48 appearance­s for LDU Quito in his home country. According to Ole, Luton Town and Brighton and Hove Albion have also shown interest in Zambrano but it is the Reds who are keen to make a move.

Last year the teenager, who is on the cusp of a senior internatio­nal call-up, caught the eye of Barcelona but Xavi did not push on with his interest. It is understood Zambrano would be seen as a future Casemiro replacemen­t if purchased.

 ?? ?? Raphael Varane
Raphael Varane

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