Manchester United 'plan to sign defender as duo sold' and more transfer rumours

Manchester United are eyeing a new centre-back in January but can only action a move if they sell Scott McTominay and Harry Maguire, according to reports.

Central defence is one of four areas identified by Erik ten Hag to strengthen, with the Dutchman keen to bring in younger talent to balance the age profile. Raphael Varane and Maguire are both 30, with the former enduring a tough season with several niggling injuries keeping him out across different spells, including against Brentford on Saturday.

Bayer Leverkusen's Edmond Tapsoba was of interest in the summer at a point in which United expected Maguire to leave, while there has also been reported interest in Goncalo Inacio of Sporting CP. But according to Football Insider, funds will need to be raised through sales with McTominay and Maguire both potential exits.

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The pair were up for sale over the summer but exits never materialised, despite strong interest coming from West Ham United. Neither have been anywhere close to featuring regularly in the early weeks of the season, even with a number of injuries in their respective positions.

Elsewhere, Calciomercato reports that Federico Chiesa could force his way out of Juventus if they fail to qualify for next season's Champions League. The Italian giants finished seventh last season which was only good enough for the Europa Conference League.

They are currently fourth in the early stages, but face plenty of competition from a number of sides for that spot while both Milan sides and Napoli look good for the other three. United have been linked with a move for the 25-year-old in recent weeks, with Ten Hag