• Manchester United likely to reinforce central defensive department
• Replacement needed for Raphael Varane, who may leave at end of season
• Jhon Lucumi could be a costeffective option

Manchester United are likely to reinforce their central defensive department during the summer transfer window and there could be more than one signing. The club will need to find a replacement for Raphael Varane, who appears likely to leave the club when his contract expires at the end of the campaign. With Lisandro Martinez's concerning injury record, the club could aim for a costeffective leftfooted option. Bologna's Jhon Lucumi could be an ideal fit.

The Red Devils have been watching his progress with Serie A club Bologna this term and AS recently claimed that the Colombian has left them surprised. The 25yearold is a 'very agile', 'fast' and 'physical' centreback. He has completed almost 54 passes per league game this term with an accuracy of 93 per cent.

Lucumi has also won an impressive 70 per cent of his ground and aerial duels and has averaged two tackles, two clearances and 5.2 recoveries per appearance.Hence, he is an allround defender, quite similar to Martinez.The centreback is valued at EUR11 million by Transfermarkt.comand could be signed for an affordable fee.United's other alternative appears to be Everton's Jarrad Branthwaite but he won't come on cheap.The Toffees are likely todemanda premium fee inthe regionof PS75m (EUR88m)for Branthwaite whostill hasto improveonhis distribution underahigh press.If fundsare limitedUnitedare unlikelyto spendbig on two marquee centrebacks.Lucumi seemsa good costeffective acquisition to provide cover for Martinez.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com