Manchester United are considering a £43m move for Bayer Leverkusen centre-back Edmond Tapsoba as they seek to address a defence that has been exposed in pre-season. Meanwhile, captain Bruno Fernandes is the subject of interest from Turkish club Galatasaray, who are prepared to offer £43m for the playmaker.
Defensive concerns mount
Michael Carrick's side conceded four goals in a 4-2 friendly defeat to AC Milan, highlighting the need for new recruits. With the transfer window closing on September 1, United have signed midfielders Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans but have yet to complete a defensive revamp.
Leverkusen have told interested parties they will need to pay £43m for Tapsoba. The 27-year-old Burkina Faso international has been linked with United, Newcastle and Tottenham. He joined Leverkusen from Vitoria Guimaraes in 2020 and has made 237 appearances, winning a Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal double in 2024.
Fernandes future in focus
United are in discussions with Fernandes over a new contract, according to the Mirror. Galatasaray have emerged as the latest suitors, offering a lucrative deal that could double his £300,000-a-week wages. Sky Sports News reports United's position is that their skipper is not for sale at any price.
Fernandes, 31, is the current Premier League Player of the Year and set a record with 21 assists last season. He has entered the final 12 months of his deal, which includes a 12-month extension option.
Centre-back options thin
United's need for a centre-back is clear. Matthijs de Ligt has not played since November after back surgery, while Harry Maguire has struggled to justify his £80m world-record fee. Lisandro Martinez is also returning from injury, and young prospects Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven are yet to prove themselves at Old Trafford.
Tapsoba signed a new five-year deal with Leverkusen recently, but the German club would entertain a departure if a suitor matches their £43m asking price, according to fussballdaten.
