Erik ten Hag can build dream Man United defence if Sir Jim Ratcliffe approves £80m transfer raid

Erik ten Hag could build his strongest backline at Manchester United to date if Sir Jim Ratcliffe sanctions bids for Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui. The Bayern Munich duo continue to be heavily linked with moves to Old Trafford this summer as the Red Devils look to strengthen their defence.

Man United finished eighth in the Premier League last season, conceding twice as many goals as Arsenal, who took Manchester City down to the wire in the title race. Interestingly, Ten Hag's side shipped fewer goals than Aston Villa, Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea and Newcastle United – fourth, fifth, sixth and seventh, respectively.

While they enjoyed their fair share of clean sheets, the Red Devils often capitulated when the floodgates opened. Regardless of the result, Man United conceded three or more goals in eight English top-flight games last term.

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So, in an effort to bolster his backline, Ten Hag has placed an incredible emphasis on signing defenders this summer. With that being said, the Manchester Evening News have taken a look at how the Red Devils could set up this season with De Ligt and Mazraoui, who are currently valued by Transfermarkt at a combined €95m (£80.2m).

If Shaw can remain fit then Ten Hag will have one of the most dangerous left-backs at his disposal this season. The 29-year-old defender only featured 12 times for Man United in the Premier League last season after suffering a pair of nasty injuries at either end of the campaign.

Yoro made a great impression on his debut for Man United earlier this month, featuring at right centre-back alongside Jonny Evans. However, the