Man Utd target Pochettino-approved January signing who would become their best defender

Mauricio Pochettino has already outlined a Premier League star as a transfer target for January that is expected to ‘feature prominently’ in Manchester United’s shortlist of signings.

Pochettino was confirmed as Michael Carrick’s replacement this week, with the United States boss set to take charge in the coming days after his upcoming matches with the USMNT.

With United sitting in the relegation zone after ten games, the club are looking to plan quickly ahead of the January window to ensure that Pochettino is sufficiently backed with enough quality to save their season.

United have conceded more goals in all competitions (30) than any other side in Europe’s top five leagues, prompting the club to prioritise a defensive addition, and The Telegraph report that Fulham’s Calvin Bassey is considered a ‘strong option’ to be signed.

Bassey’s contract is set to expire at the end of the season and, while Fulham have an option to extend it for a further year, the Cottagers would find it difficult to turn down a big offer in January if a long-term extension is not agreed by then.

In particular, Bassey’s pace is seen as a much-needed attribute in their backline, while his athleticism and versatility would allow him to fill in at left-back, where United’s only natural option in Luke Shaw is currently injured.

Bassey has been a key player for Fulham since joining the club for €22.5 million in 2023 and the Nigerian international has had a strong campaign so far, playing every minute of every Premier League match.

Fulham manager Alvaro Arbeloa described Bassey as ‘one of the best defenders in the league’ after impressing in the 1-1 draw against United in September and the former Ajax man has also captained his side this season.

Data analytics firm SciSports tend to agree with Arbeloa, with Bassey currently rated higher than any of United’s current centre-backs as well as a standout player in the league for speed and stamina.

United are reported to have Bassey as part of a four-man shortlist that includes three defenders and striker Folarin Balogun, highlighting exactly where Pochettino feels he needs his squad to improve, even with the club operating on a tight budget.

Bassey’s declining contract length has also seen his Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) drop 22% in the last year from a high of €34.9m to €27.1m, indicating that United could secure a bargain signing on a cut-price deal if they make their move.

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