Manchester United is reportedly looking to move through with a deal for Villarreal defender Pau Torres. The Red Devils are said to have held talks with the player's representatives about a possible summer transfer to Old Trafford.
Pau Torres has been a key member of Unai Emery's team this season, making 47 appearances in all competitions (stats via Transfermarkt). In a true underdog story, the Spaniard had a tremendous season at Villarreal, reaching the Champions League semifinals. In the Round of 16, the La Liga club also eliminated Juventus.
In a 4-4-2 or 4-3-3 formation, the 25-year-old has thrived on the left side of the defense. In terms of passing ability, the Spaniard is one of the best in the world, especially as a defender. Torres is a valuable asset for both his club and the Spanish national team when it comes to moving the ball forward and distributing the ball.
The Yellow Submarines finished in a disappointing seventh position, relegating them to the UEFA Conference League for next season. Torres' contract runs through 2024, with a €60 million release clause. Due to Villarreal's financial difficulties, they may be forced to sell some of their greatest players, including Torres, for a cheaper fee.
According to MEN, Manchester United has initiated preliminary conversations with Villarreal and Pau Torres' representatives about a prospective summer transfer. According to the report, United's board of directors discussed the Spanish defender with new manager Erik ten Hag and agreed to proceed with the transfer after he gave the 'the light.
The Villarreal centre-back, according to Ten Hag, would be a perfect match for his system. The Dutchman has a number of options, including club captain Harry Maguire, Victor Lindelof, and Raphael Varane. Meanwhile, it is likely that Phil Jones and Eric Bailly would leave during the forthcoming transfer window.
The Red Devils are eager to complete the transaction as quickly as possible. According to The Express, United will meet with the player's representatives, who will fly to England this week, to speed up the process and explore a potential transaction. The Red Devils are willing to spend up to €50 million for the defender's services.
Tottenham Hotspur, a Premier League rival, is also rumored to have interested in Pau Torres. At the North London club, the Spaniard would fit in perfectly with Conte's possession-based approach. Spurs have made a bid of €50 million (£42.5 million) for centre-back, according to Cadena SER (via MEN). Torres, on the other hand, has stated that the Red Devils are his preferred future club.
This season, United's defenders have all struggled with form and consistency. Maguire, in particular, has been chastised for his poor performance. Ten Hag, on the other hand, supported the Englishman.
"I have to reiterate that next season will be different, but I think he did a fantastic job," says the coach.
"He's a fantastic player who has already accomplished a lot with his service to Manchester United." So I'm excited to collaborate with him."
A verbal agreement has also been reached between Manchester United and Ajax defender Jurrien Timber. It'll be interesting to see if the Red Devils bring in two players for the same position, or if they'll have to choose between them.
Torres is five years his senior to the Dutchman. He does, however, have more top-flight experience.
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