Manchester United are weighing up a £35million bid for Borussia Dortmund defender Waldemar Anton as manager Michael Carrick looks to strengthen his squad in the summer transfer window. The Red Devils boss is keen to add a new centre-back to his ranks, with scouts having been dispatched to monitor the German international's performances.
Injury Concerns Prompt Defensive Search
Substantial doubts persist regarding the immediate futures of United duo Lisandro Martinez and Matthijs de Ligt. Both defenders have been sidelined with serious injuries, raising concerns at the club about their fitness records. Martinez, a World Cup winner, managed only 19 appearances across all competitions last season, while De Ligt has been unavailable since November due to a back problem that required surgery.
United could now turn to Anton as a solution. The 29-year-old joined Dortmund from Stuttgart in 2024 for £18m and has since established himself as one of the Bundesliga's top defenders. He made his international debut in 2024 and has earned 12 caps, helping Germany secure World Cup qualification. Anton is part of Julian Nagelsmann's squad for the upcoming tournament in North America.
World Cup Could Impact Value
United are aware that a deal is unlikely before the World Cup kicks off, meaning Anton's value could rise if he performs well. Germany, who exited at the group stage in 2022, are in Group E alongside Curacao, Ivory Coast, and Ecuador. Anton faces stiff competition for a starting spot from Real Madrid's Antonio Rudiger, Bayern Munich's Jonathan Tah, Dortmund teammate Nico Schlotterbeck, and Newcastle's Malick Thiaw. He is under contract until 2028 but has long harboured an ambition to play in the Premier League.
Midfield and Other Targets
United are also targeting at least two midfielders this summer. They are close to agreeing a deal with Atalanta for Ederson, who could replace the departed Casemiro at the base of midfield. Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson is on United's shortlist, but he is reportedly leaning towards a move to rivals Manchester City. Other targets include Mateus Fernandes, Sandro Tonali, and Aurelien Tchouameni.
The club would also like to sign a left-back, with Newcastle's Lewis Hall linked. An experienced forward is another profile being considered, but the return of Marcus Rashford from his loan spell at Barcelona could complicate matters.
