Manchester United are locked in a transfer battle with Newcastle United to sign Fulham centre-back Tosin Adarabioyo, according to BBC.
Adarabioyo is one of several central defenders being considered by Man United.
Newcastle are reportedly in advanced talks with him but the Red Devils have not ended their interest in the Englishman.
Adarabioyo will be available on a free transfer this summer as his current deal with Fulham expires on 30 June.
Liverpool and Tottenham are also interested in acquiring his services.
Signing Adarabioyo is a no-brainer for Man United Strengthening the defence is a priority for Erik ten Hag, especially with their struggles at the back in the 2023/24 season.
Raphael Varane is set to head Old Trafford's exit door after the FA Cup final against Manchester City.
Jonny Evans and Victor Lindelof are also facing an uncertain future at United. The 36-year-old rejoined United on a short-term deal that concludes next month.
Lindelof has had a tough season due to injuries and inconsistent form. He is one of those players who United can sell to raise funds.
The situation underscores the urgency for United to secure new defensive reinforcements with possibly three outgoings.
The number could increase to four if Harry Maguire is also allowed to move on.
Adarabioyo has shown strong aerial ability and possesses good ball-playing ability. Standing at 6'5, his physical presence could be helpful to United in both the boxes.
At 26 years old, the centre-back is entering the prime years of his career.
It also makes financial sense for United to sign him. The Red Devils are expected to have merely PS35 million in cash to spend in the summer transfer window.
Adarabioyo represents a cost-effective option. United would not have to pay a transfer fee and they could offer him a much better pay package than his current PS40,000-a-week.
It will be challenging for United as the Magpies are leading the race to get his signature. Eddie Howe's side can offer him more playing time than he might receive at Old Trafford.
However, the Red Devils must pull out all the stops to secure the defender's signature in the coming summer.
Stats from Capology.com