As reported by The Mirror, Pau Torres will be on Manchester United’s radar once more this summer as they look for a defensive signing at Old Trafford.
The Spanish center-back is highly regarded and has previously been linked with a move to Manchester United. Erik ten Hag is expected to arrive in the coming months and could bring in some new faces as part of a squad restructure that may see new center-backs coming.
With Phil Jones and Eric Bailly both linked with an exit, United’s need for a defender would be increased even more. Raphael Varane joined from Real Madrid in the summer, but he has struggled to solidify the defense, with captain Harry Maguire receiving regular criticism.
Torres has been instrumental in Villarreal’s recent European success. The Yellow Submarine won their first Europa League title, defeating United on penalties in Gdansk last season.
They met United in the Champions League group stages again this season and won that tie.
They’ve defeated Juventus, Bayern Munich on road to the semis, with Liverpool being their next opponent. Torres has a desire to play in the Champions League with his hometown club’s recent success influenced his decision to remain in Spain.
Torres is also on Chelsea’s radar as they seek to replace Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen, putting United in a bidding war for the defender.
The Blues are now unable to sign new players as they work through their new ownership change as a result of the sanctions imposed on them.
Torres’ outstanding season will lure elite clubs to keep a close eye on him, with the 25-year-old also a regular with the national team ahead of the World Cup. If he chose to leave, Villarreal would not stand in his way.
