Journalist names two Erik ten Hag centre-half targets with only Raphael Varane safe at Man Utd

Incoming new Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag plans to make wholesale changes to his side – but will put his immediate focus into the signing of not one, but two, central defenders, according to a source.

The 52-year-old has been trusted by the Red Devils to lead them into a bright new era. Having failed to hit the heights this season, United are turning to the Ajax coach on a deal that makes him the best-paid Dutch coach in Premier League history. Signing an initial three-year deal, Ten Hag’s brief is a simple one…

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Indeed, he will be asked to help transform the club’s fortunes, having fallen way behind Manchester City and Liverpool in recent seasons.

Their shortcomings been brutally exposed by arch-rivals Liverpool this season, especially, having lost to a 9-0 ‘aggregate’ scoreline.

Perhaps the biggest problem for Manchester United has been their defensive shoddiness. Having already conceded 51 goals this season, that tally represents their highest goals against in over 40 years.

As such, it’s no shock to see that Ten Hag – following guidance from interim boss Ralf Rangnick – plans to address that as a first task.

One of the major let-downs this season has been the form of captain Harry Maguire in the heart of defence. As an £80m signing, he has struggled to maintain his consistent best in the heart of the Red Devils defence.

In addition, it’s no surprise to see reports emerging