It was has taken a while, but Manchester United are steadily beginning to get some deals over the line during this transfer window.
Progress had been slow up until this month, although the club have confirmed a number of signings in recent weeks. Tyrell Malacia, Christian Eriksen, and Lisandro Martinez have all signed on the dotted line during that period.
The club's business is unlikely to be finished there. United remain in talks over a deal to sign Frenkie de Jong from Barcelona, although there are a number of complications related to that particular transfer.
However, they could be closing in on another deal.
Manchester United in talks for Ligue 1 defender
It is clear that Erik ten Hag has placed an emphasis on improving Manchester United's defensive options, with both Malacia and Martinez helping to address those concerns. In saying that, they have yet to strengthen the weakest area of their back line.
Right back is a position that requires strengthening, with Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Diogo Dalot both lacking the quality that is required to play at a top club. Wan-Bissaka offers absolute nothing on the ball and has been overrated in his defensive qualities, while Dalot clearly is not the solution in the long-term.
It appears as though they could be about to bring in a new recruit to ease their concerns.
Portuguese journalist Pedro Almeida is reporting that Manchester United are close to agreeing a deal to sign Lens right back Jonathan Clauss.
Jonathan #Clauss in advanced talks with Manchester United. 🇨🇵🔴 #MUFC https://t.co/29iAph19AM
— Pedro Almeida (@pedrogva6) July 18, 2022
The 29-year old has been linked with a number of clubs this summer after impressing in Ligue 1 in recent times. He scored five goals and registered 11 assists in the league last season, pointing towards the type of offensive threat that United have been badly lacking from this position over the last number of years.
The likes of Chelsea, Atletico Madrid, and Marseille have all been credited with an interest in his services, with a fee of around £8million mooted for a player who has only 12 months remaining on his current contract.
Jonathan Clauss 🇫🇷
pic.twitter.com/MURG5pUr7k— ٰ (@b_khaled18) July 15, 2022
Clauss has gone from strength to strength since joining Lens from German club Arminia Bielefeld in 2020, making his debut for France earlier this year.
His signing would certainly strengthen Manchester United's first team squad, with that price tag meaning it is a very low risk move.
This is one to keep an eye on in the days ahead.
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