Unwanted Man Utd centre-back FINALLY AGREES to leave

James Shearman

• Updated: 12 Aug 2023 10:56 BST
• 3 min read

Manchester United are finally close to agreeing the sale of centre-back Eric Bailly to Besiktas, according to multiple reports.

Bailly signed for United in 2016 for a £30 million fee, one which they will surely regret now.

The Frenchman started 24 Premier League games in his debut campaign, but has never come close to that number since.

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In fact, he spent the entirety of the 2022-23 campaign on loan at Marseille, where he received a seven-game game for a kung-fu kick tackle.

Troubled with injuries and surplus to requirements at Old Trafford, he was never a part of Erik ten Hag's plans and did not take part in preseason in any capacity.

As a result, he has decided to join Turkish Super Lig side Besiktas, in favour of a Saudi Pro League move.

Man Utd centre-back situation

With the departure of Bailly, the Red Devils are left with four centre-back options, excluding 35-year-old Jonny Evans.

And the quartet of Lisandro Martinez, Raphael Varane, Victor Lindelof and Harry Maguire is certainly solid.

However, Maguire has been linked with an exit all summer, with West Ham among the clubs interested in the England international.

Should he leave, United will need to sign a replacement before the transfer window closes in three weeks' time.

Bayern Munich, who have just announced the signing of Harry Kane, could be willing to part ways with Benjamin Pavard.

While Tottenham target Edmond Tapsoba and former Barcelona defender Jean-Clair Todibo have also been touted as options.