Manchester United are chasing Benjamin Pavard and former defender Rio Ferdinand loves this particular pursuit.
United have been wishing up defensive signings of late amid questions over Harry Maguire’s future.
It’s clear that the England international isn’t a key part of Erik ten Hag’s plans and a move to West Ham United seemed imminent.
A £30million deal was agreed last week but The Guardian now claim that Maguire’s move is off due to issues regarding the defender’s pay-off to leave United.
That leaves United’s defensive pursuit in limbo but United have identified a top target should Maguire end up leaving.
Manchester United want Benjamin Pavard
Bayern Munich defender Benjamin Pavard has emerged as the man for United.
The 27-year-old is now into the final year of his Bayern contract and it seems that he wants a new challenge.
Bild reported on Monday that Pavard has made it clear to Bayern that he wants to be sold to United this summer.
Pavard would give Ten Hag an option at right back and centre back, providing greater flexibility to the squad than Maguire.
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However, the report highlighted that Bayern don’t want to sell Pavard having missed out on Manchester City’s Kyle Walker.
That makes a deal tricky but United will hope that Pavard’s contract situation can pave the way for an Old Trafford move.
Rio Ferdinand reacts to Pavard rumours
Former United defender Rio Ferdinand has been speaking about Pavard on FIVE.
Ferdinand isn’t convinced by United’s pursuit of Everton midfielder Amadou Onana but loves the Pavard interest.
The ex-England international suggested that he would want Pavard at United ‘all day long’ if a deal is possible.
Ferdinand highlighted Pavard’s versatility and his secure defensive ability, believing that he can bring tactical flexibility for Ten Hag.
“Yes, all day long,” said Ferdinand. “He can play centre back, can play right back, delivery, secure, yes, yes, I’m here for Pavard all day long,” he added.
Ferdinand is clearly excited about a potential deal but much will depend on Maguire’s future and if Bayern will back down.