Manchester United transfer news: Ole Gunnar Solskjaer identifies alternative to £90m Kalidou Koulibaly

Napoli's Koulibaly has long been a desired target, but sources say the current asking price is far too much leaving Solskjaer to look elsewhere for defensive reinforcements

Miguel Delaney
Chief Football Writer
Wednesday 15 May 2019 07:35 BST
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Solskjaer on 'disappointing' season finish

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Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has identified centre-half as a key area for improvement, amid what is planned to be an extensive overhaul of the Manchester United over the summer, with the club set to pursue long-standing and new targets like Harry Maguire.

Former manager Jose Mourinho had previously insisted the position had to be improved upon, only to clash with the hierarchy over the signings he wanted due to their age and price.

Napoli's Kalidou Koulibaly has long been a desired target, but sources say the current asking price of over £90m is far too much.

That could well see them return to previous options like Leicester City's Harry Maguire and Internazionale's Milan Skriniar.

There is some debate about Toby Alderweireld's suitability, given his age, at 30.

United would prefer to go for younger players, who can slot into the team right away, but also have scope to improve.

It is meanwhile expected that Axel Tuanzebe will be recalled from his loan at Aston Villa for next season, after impressing there during the Championship club's run to the play-offs.

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