Manchester United to sign Chelsea-linked defender this summer

Manchester United could apparently sign Villarreal’s Pau Torres for less than his £56m release clause this summer.

With Ole Gunnar Solskjaer thought to be searching for a long term partner for Harry Maguire, the Spain international is apparently one of the six names on the Red Devils’ defensive wish list this summer.

With the Villarreal man contracted to the Yellow Submarine until 2024, Unai Emery’s side can afford to ball hardball, however United might have the option to strike a deal for a lower figure than his reported in his release clause.

As indicated by ESPN, Villarreal will be glad to sell Torres for a fee close to £43m, as they acknowledge that he needs to proceed onward in his career and join top European club.

In any case, the report adds that Man United would need to fight off interest from Real Madrid to get Torres’ signature, albeit the possibility of a cut-price deal could convince the Red Devils to step up their quest for the talented defender, who is supposed to be their primary defensive target.

Torres, 24, has made 34 appearances for Villarreal across all competitions this season, netting twice in La Liga and once in the Europa League.