According to Foot Mercato, Ralf Rangnick wants to bring West Ham defender Issa Diop to Manchester United for Erik ten Hag.
What’s the story?
Well, the French news outlet believe the Red Devils are eyeing a raid on the Hammers this summer, as they plan to overhaul their squad.
Foot Mercato believe Manchester United tried to sign Diop in 2019, before they eventually agreed a deal with Leicester for Harry Maguire.
Now, they are monitoring the Frenchman once again, with Rangnick behind the pursuit having tracked the towering centre-back during his time as Director of Football at RB Leipzig.
Manchester United will face competition from Lyon, who are also interested in signing Diop this summer.
It comes after Newcastle made a bid for Diop in January, with the east Londoners identifying John Egan as a potential replacement.
According to Foot Mercato, West Ham would accept €15m (£13m) for the 25-year-old, who they signed from Toulouse for £25m in 2018.
So far this season, Diop has made 26 appearances for the Irons, scoring one goal while also providing two assists.
Manchester United would be fools to raid West Ham
In our view, we’re not quite sure why Manchester United want to sign someone who doesn’t start regularly for West Ham.
David Moyes has given Diop just ten Premier League starts this season from a possible 34, and while we think he’s a decent player, Rangnick can surely find better for Ten Hag.
With all due respect, we don’t understand how the Dutchman is going to transform the bleak situation at Old Trafford by signing someone West Ham are happy to take a £12m loss on.
Only if players such as Matthijs de Ligt, Kalidou Koulibaly or Jules Kounde reject moves to Manchester United should someone like Diop be targeted.
Until then, Rangnick should cross the Frenchman off his shortlist.
Nevertheless, keep an eye on this saga, as Diop clearly has admirers in the recruitment team at Old Trafford.
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