Edmond Tapsoba could be Raphael Varane's perfect successor at Manchester United

Bayer Leverkusen centre-back Edmond Tapsoba has already given an insight into his playing characteristics amid Manchester United's interest in his signature.

As reported by the Manchester Evening News on Wednesday, United are going to try and bring in a new centre-back ahead of the transfer window closing in just over three weeks' time to try and fill the void that is expected to be vacated by Harry Maguire. The England international is closing in on a move to West Ham United after the two clubs agreed a deal in principle earlier this week.

Maguire's expected departure means that United will try and source a replacement before the September 1 deadline and they have highlighted Tapsoba as a potential target. The Reds are understood to admire the 24-year-old, who joined Leverkusen three years ago.

The Burkina Faso international, who is a ball-playing centre-back, has gone from strength-to-strength during his time in Germany, earning widespread plaudits. He has also been linked with the likes of Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur in recent months.

READ MORE: 'So good on the ball' - United fans excited by transfer update after Harry Maguire news

Though United's first-choice centre-back pairing of Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez, Tapsoba is six years Maguire's junior, meaning he would have the potential to be a long-term successor for Varane in years to come. The latter, who joined United two years ago, will turn 31 before the end of this season and is prone to small injury issues, meaning boss Erik ten Hag will want someone to step in and take his place.

Tapsoba, who has racked up 137 appearances for Leverkusen, chipping in with five goals, could be just the ticket, particularly as a ball-playing defender, to accompany