Manchester United enter race to sign Barcelona defensive target

Sergino Dest was dropped from the squad list to face Rayo Vallecano as La Liga opened its curtains for the 2022/23 season. Instead, we saw Ronald Araujo and Sergi Roberto occupy the right-back spot in that encounter.

Xavi has made it clear he does not trust the American as the first-choice right-back, which gives the club the green light to push him out the exit door ahead of an important season.

A defender short now, though, they want to replace Dest with one of Thomas Meunier or Juan Foyth. Both moves are difficult, but the former will be much easier given his €10 million price tag.

Or so we thought, as Telegraph reports that Manchester United are ready to compete with Barcelona for Meunier’s signature.

The club is in desperate need of reinforcing its backline before the summer window slams shut, and are weighing up a frantic move for the Belgian.

Erik ten Hag has already given his approval to sell Aaron Wan-Bissaka to Crystal Palace for £10 million. He wants the club to sign another right-back who can compete with Diogo Dalot for the starting spot.

The report suggests that United are, now, weighing up a £12.5 million offer for Meunier, who is contracted to Dortmund until 2024.

Meanwhile, they have also been linked to Dest himself, who is apparently now leaning towards an exit. United will have to shell out nearly €20 million for his services.

Xavi admires Meunier for his experience playing as a fullback, but also for his offensive abilities.

Last season, the 30-year-old contributed to the Black and Yellow with two goals and four assists in 17 appearances but has been unable to create a single chance thus far in the 2022/23 season in two games.

If the reports of United’s interest are, indeed true, it would ideally be best for Barcelona to back off. Dortmund are tough negotiators, and will not let the right-back leave for a low-ball offer, unlike Sevilla and Leeds United.