No-one truly knows what the future holds for Manchester United. A once superpower of our beautiful game has been reduced to little more than a laughing stock in recent times. Things have been difficult since Sir Alex Ferguson left but we now seem on the brink of slipping away into years of mediocrity and becoming the next AC Milan. Things need to change fast.
Ther defence was earmarked for an overhaul last summer and while Harry Maguire and Aaron Wan-Bissaka were not bad signings (if a little overpriced), a big complaint this season has remained that the Red Devils lack a proper leader/organiser at the back...or at the very least, a stable partner for Maguire.
The likes of Kalidou Koulibaly and Samuel Umtiti are often lazily mentioned in the gossip columns but neither seems quite right or realistic for one reason or another.
Instead, here are eight of the best centre backs that the 13-time Premier League champions should be looking at come the summer.
Caglar Soyuncu (Leicester)
While a move to Old Trafford would very possibly signal a downward turn in Soyuncu's career in the short-term, the Leicester centre half would be a great addition to Man United's ranks. Having filled Maguire's shoes effortlessly, the Turkish defender has been one of the key factors in the Foxes' top-four charge, and one of the standout defensive players of the 2019/20 season.
Having already been linked with a move to Manchester City, the 23-year-old will be in high demand come summer. Brendan Rodgers will be incredibly reluctant to sell his star centre-back, but a sizeable transfer fee may turn the youngster's head.
Big, strong and calm on the ball, Soyuncu has the perfect attributes for a modern defender, and would certainly improve the Red Devils' defence.
Much like Maguire before him, however, he won't come cheap.
Moussa Niakhate (Mainz)
A more cost-effective way of acquiring a fast, physical centre back is Niakhate.
Despite playing for a relegation-threatened Mainz in the Bundesliga, the 23-year-old is unfortunate to find himself associated with a side fighting to beat the drop.
The French defender is highly-revered in Germany - and his native France - and is blessed with speed and agility, despite being 6'2. The defender is unlikely to be a Mainz player next campaign as many of Europe's elite circle, and, valued at approximately £15m, United would be making a sensible investment, if not signing an established ready-made superstar.
Willy Boly (Wolves)
A long-term injury has kept the Wolves defender out of action for much of the season, but the Frenchman has proven his worth since making the jump up to the big time. Sitting in a formidable back five for Nuno Espirito Santo's side, Boly has been an incredible asset to the Europa League challengers, with his tactical nous a cut above his teammates.
At 6'5 and with Premier League experience aplenty, the 28-year-old could make a relatively seamless transition in Manchester.
In 2018/19, no centre back in the Premier League made more tackles, while he was also second for interceptions and eighth for aerial duels won. He also chipped in with four goals...
Jonathan Tah (Bayer Leverkusen)
The 23-year-old has been talked about as one of the most promising talents in world football for what feels like an eternity. Building an impressive CV at Leverkusen, it's finally time for Tah to make the big-money move to one of the world's most prestigious clubs.
Capped nine times for Germany, the imposing centre back has already managed 164 appearances for Die Werkself, and would be more than capable of walking straight into the United first team.
Jan Vertonghen (Tottenham)
Despite having hit the ripe old age of 32, and seemingly losing an inch of pace every passing season, the Belgian would still be a shrewd signing for the Red Devils.
With his contract expiring in June, and little progress towards a new deal, the Belgian could move to Old Trafford for absolutely nothing (although United will likely overcompensate with his wages).
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side were trying to court Vertonghen's compatriot and Tottenham teammate Toby Alderweireld in summer, but with the former Southampton man signing an extension with the Lilywhites, Vertonghen may be the next best thing to provide an experienced, quality player who can organise and lead the occasionally suspect United backline.
Djene (Getafe)
The 27-year-old is not the biggest, but his defensive qualities have shone through and helped Getafe hit lofty new heights in La Liga. Currently sat in fourth place, with the fourth-best defensive record in the division as well, Getafe have the Togo international to partially thank for their stellar showings.
Frequently linked with Arsenal, the 28-year-old is more than capable of succeeding in the Premier League, and is likely to make a move away from the Spanish outfit sooner rather than later.
Merih Demiral (Juventus)
A potentially season-ending injury has marred Demiral's breakout campaign in Serie A, but come summer the transfer rumours will undoubtedly re-emerge.
Strongly linked with Leicester in January, the Turkish defender has made quite an impression at Juventus, but competition for places with some world-class teammates means a move away from the Allianz Stadium may be necessary.
Demiral will likely cost upwards of £40m, but in signing the 21-year-old, United would be acquiring one of the brightest young defenders in Europe.
Tyrone Mings (Aston Villa)
By the time summer comes around, Mings may be a Championship player. The Villa centre-back may not be able to help the Midlands club beat the drop, and likely needs to leave Villa Park to further his career - even if the Villans stay up.
Gareth Southgate has shown faith in the 26-year-old, who has thoroughly impressed in England's top-flight this term. The defender has all the physical attributes to succeed at the highest level, but may need to hone his skills on the ball if he is going to play for one of the division's elite.
Source : 90min