Former Premier League manager Alan Pardew has urged Manchester United to beat Arsenal in the race to sign Ezri Konsa.
The Red Devils currently have Harry Maguire, Leny Yoro, Matthijs de Ligt, Ayden Heaven and Lisandro Martínez as options to deploy in the centre-back positions.
Moreover, academy youngster Dan Armer is emerging, and he has displayed promising performances during the pre-season matches. Therefore, on paper, United already have enough options in defence.
However, De Ligt has been out injured for several months, while Yoro hasn’t been able to find his feet in the Premier League since joining from LOSC Lille a couple of years ago.
On the other hand, Heaven has shown glimpses of his high potential in recent times, but he is still very young and his game time needs to be managed carefully to help him reach his full potential.
Maguire, meanwhile, has reached the twilight of his career and his existing deal is set to run until next summer. Martínez has also had fitness problems over the last few years.
Now, on talkSPORT, Pardew has said that Konsa is a player similar to Steve Bruce, with the Aston Villa star being strong in the air, efficient at pressing the opposition high up the field and capable of chipping in with some important goals. Therefore, he would be a shrewd acquisition for Man Utd should they decide to purchase him.
Pardew said:
“Konsa has been mentioned with a couple of clubs. What a signing he would be for Man United! A centre-back who can pass, who’s dominant in the air, gets you a goal from a set piece, just like Steve Bruce.”
Man Utd urged to sign Konsa
However, talkSPORT state that following William Saliba’s serious back problem, Arsenal have pursued Konsa throughout this summer, but they haven’t been able to sign him.
With the player’s existing deal set to run until 2028, Aston Villa aren’t in any rush to sell him this summer and want around £60m.
Konsa is a right-footed versatile defender as he can provide cover in the centre-back and right-back positions. He has showcased his qualities in the Premier League in recent years and has secured his place in the England national team.
The Englishman is currently at the prime stage of his career. Therefore, he might be a shrewd acquisition for Man Utd should they eventually manage to secure his services by defeating Arsenal in this race.
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