Manchester United Seeks Defensive Reinforcements

Interest in Edmond Tapsoba

Manchester United is reportedly looking to add Bayer Leverkusen defender Edmond Tapsoba to its ranks during the summer transfer window of 2026. The Red Devils’ recruitment director, Christopher Vivell, is hopeful about acquiring the player, while also suggesting a move for Alejandro Balde from Barcelona.

Under the guidance of interim manager Michael Carrick, Manchester United has shown significant improvement and is aiming for a top-four finish in the Premier League this season.

Financial Backing for New Signings

According to sources relayed by TEAMtalk’s transfer expert, Dean Jones, Manchester United is prepared to allocate £200 million for new player acquisitions in the summer of 2026, contingent upon qualifying for the Champions League the following season.

Tapsoba’s Profile

Edmond Tapsoba is a primary target for Manchester United. The club is impressed with Tapsoba’s physical attributes, which are deemed well-suited for English football’s demanding nature. Additionally, the 27-year-old center-back has piqued the interest of other top clubs like Liverpool, Real Madrid, and Paris Saint-Germain. Leverkusen is said to be open to selling Tapsoba for approximately €60 million (£52.4 million).

German media describe Tapsoba as the “most complete center-back in the Bundesliga.”

Pursuit of Alejandro Balde

Another defender on United’s radar is Alejandro Balde from Barcelona. Transfer journalist Ben Jacobs has indicated that Christopher Vivell is advocating for Balde’s recruitment. The young left-back, just 22 years old, has made a name for himself in Barcelona’s first team, having joined through the club’s youth academy.

Balde has already accumulated 158 appearances for Barcelona, netting three goals and providing 21 assists throughout his career thus far. Currently contracted until the summer of 2028, Balde is reportedly eager to continue with Barcelona.

Growing Interest in Gabriel Veneno

Manchester United is intensifying its interest in 16-year-old Gabriel Veneno, as reported by insider Graeme Bailey. Veneno, a rising talent from Atletico Mineiro, has garnered attention for his potential and skills. The Brazilian winger is also on the radar of clubs like Arsenal, Chelsea, and Manchester City.

Regarded as a “generational” talent, Veneno is attracting interest from major European teams, including Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona, RB Leipzig, Atletico Madrid, Bayern Munich, Inter Milan, and AS Monaco.