Ten Hag identifies World Cup finalist as potential Maguire replacement

Manchester United are in the race to sign AS Monaco center-back Axel Disasi to bolster their defense. 

The club is looking to bring in a new center-back this summer as they continue to overhaul the playing squad under Erik ten Hag.

Harry Maguire could well be on the way out, which could explain why the Dutchman has ‘approved’ Disasi's pursuit according to Fabrizio Romano.

Newcastle United are also in the race having approached the player's entourage this week and are expected to make contact with Monaco.

According to L'Équipe, It’s stated that United and AS Monaco are yet to begin formal discussions, the transfer will be worth around £34m; a fee which United will have no problem paying.

Disasi was part of the French squad that reached the final of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar and also featured in all 38 games for AS Monaco in Ligue 1 last term.

The Frenchman is the perfect backup option to have for when Raphael Varane needs a rest (or is out injured), and could also be his long-term successor.

AS Monaco could let the Frenchman leave as they look to balance the books following finishing outside of the Champions League places.

This feels like an astute move. United probably need one more center-back for depth purposes, though they will not want to spend a large chunk of their budget on the position.

Disasi is a talented player, available at a reasonable price. This is the sort of deal that could be fully funded by player sales this summer.