Manchester United 'identify Roma defender as target' plus more transfer rumours

Manchester United are said to have circled Roma defender Gianluca Mancini as a potential January target.

Erik ten Hag is expected to look for a new centre-back next year as he aims to reduce the average age of his defensive options. A move for a defender in the upcoming transfer window seems unlikely, though, despite Lisandro Martinez’s long-term setback.

The Argentine has been ruled out since September after having a second round of surgery on a recurring metatarsal injury but might be back early next year. Furthermore, United are concerned about breaching Financial Fair Play rules after another big summer of spending.

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The report from Il Romanista concedes that a mid-season departure for Mancini is not likely given his regular inclusion in Jose Mourinho’s line-ups having just been made vice-captain.

The 27-year-old, who earned his 11th cap for Italy last month, has started all 16 of Roma’s matches this season and doesn’t see his contract run out until 2027.

Meanwhile, Chelsea have reportedly joined the race to sign Evan Ferguson amid the Irishman being linked with United. A move for the 19-year-old from Ten Hag seems slim given the £72m arrival of Rasmus Hojlund in the summer.

The attacker would cost a hefty amount having penned a new deal last week that keeps him at Brighton until 2029. The fresh contract means only a select few clubs would be able to afford him next summer and it would be a shock if United decided to splash the majority of their budget on the teenager.

Football Insider claims Chelsea may make a move while Caught Offside reports that United still hold an interest in Ferguson.