As things stand, Manchester United appear to be focusing solely on Raphaël Varane to bolster their defence.
However, they know full well alternatives are needed in case Real Madrid play hardball, which seems to be the case for the time being, and that’s where Cristian Romero comes in.
There have been numerous rumours that Manchester United were looking at the Argentine at some point, but they calmed down, perhaps understandably, while the defender was on duty for his country at the Copa América.
With the tournament now over, things could pick up again, which is what Gazzetta dello Sport are hinting at on Wednesday.
They state Juventus are currently looking at offers they have received for Mehri Demiral, whom Atalanta want to take Romero’s place should he leave once they make his move permanent.
That’s where Manchester United come in, as it’s claimed the Red Devils are still ‘willing to pay €45m’ for the centre-back.
To us, it sounds like those in charge of transfers at Old Trafford have simply told Atalanta they would be happy to put that amount forward for the defender without actually officially doing so, perhaps in hope they can secure Varane.
If they don’t, then they would turn to the Argentine to give Harry Maguire that elusive partner.
