Despite returning to winning ways in the Premier League with a 2-0 victory over Everton, Manchester United struggled to demonstrate any true brilliance on the field.
The Toffees, who have yet to win a league game in the new year, ended the game with more shots, and if they had been a little more clinical, the outcome could have been quite different.
The hosts failed to play out from the back every time, with Raphael Varane failing as the left-sided centre-back and Casemiro also lacking on the ball.
In Lisandro Martinez’s absence, the Frenchman has not stepped up, and his current contract expires in June. Jonny Evans has excelled, but he cannot be the long-term option at the back.
New CB needed in the summer
Victor Lindelof and Harry Maguire have both been linked with moves elsewhere, and finding a long-term partner for the Argentine is the club’s top goal as the summer window approaches.
The name that is gaining traction every day is Gleison Bremer of Juventus, who has kept an incredible 13 clean sheets in 28 appearances.
His consistency has been impressive, with the 26-year-old nominated to the Serie A team of the season for the past two years in a straight.
The Brazil international joined Turin for €44 million from Torino in 2022, and the Serie A club paid €70 million for its defensive star.
While they would like to keep the former Atlético Mineiro star, it is becoming increasingly clear that they cannot compete with the Premier League’s riches.
First offer
Juventus are reportedly seeking for a successor, and Fichajes has now stated that the Red Devils are preparing their “first big offer” for the defensive stalwart.
“The Brazilian central defender of Juventus is Erik Ten Hag’s major goal in strengthening his defense.
“They are showing a lot of interest in acquiring the services of Gleison Bremer for whom they would be willing to put more 50 million euros on the table.”
While the bid is expected to be rejected, the tone of the report indicates that United wants to complete their business as soon as possible, which is a welcome change from the Glazers’ deadline day pandemonium.