Mourinho lines up Southampton ace to resolve Man United’s defensive woes
Published:
Jose Mourinho will turn to Southampton’s Virgil van Dijk in a £30m bid to tighten up Manchester United’s defence.
Despite signing Eric Bailly from Villarreal for a similar fee in the summer, United’s 4-0 capitulation at Chelsea left few in doubt that further improvements are needed.
The Red Devils have already conceded 12 goals from 10 Premier League games this term, while Van Dijk has impressed on the south coast since signing from Celtic in 2015.
The Dutchman was a crucial part of the Saints’ stunning run to sixth last season, and has played every minute of their Premier League and Europa League campaigns this term.
At 6ft 4in, the 25-year-old would bring an enhanced physical presence to United’s back-line, and 26 career goals showcases plenty of talent at the other end of the pitch too.
With United’s hopes of landing a top-four spot and a return to the Champions League already under pressure, it’s believed United could even be pushed into making a January bid for the centre-half.
Southampton have Van Dijk tied down to a contract until 2022 however, so United won’t be able to snap up their target cheaply.
Mourinho will hope for a better defensive performance when United head to Swansea.
The bookies make 7/10 favourites for victory in Wales, with Bob Bradley’s side 9/2 to heap further misery on the former Premier League champions.
All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing
