Man Utd 'considering defensive revamp' with four futures uncertain amid transfer speculation

Up to four of Manchester United's five central defenders could leave this summer with Erik ten Hag reportedly planning for a revamp in that area. United have already identified central defence as a key area to strengthen in the next summer window, with Ten Hag keen to lower the age profile. Three of his current five options are 30 or above and a long-term injury to Lisandro Martinez has left them vulnerable at the back.

ESPN reports that every centre-back apart from Martinez is now a potential summer exit, with the futures of Raphael Varane, Victor Lindelof, Harry Maguire and Jonny Evans all uncertain. Any departures will almost certainly pave the way for new additions.

Varane and Evans will both see their current contracts expire in the summer, meaning both will leave for free as it stands. The latter is 36 years old and was only ever expected to be a short-term fix, but his appearances have been solid, even if a little more regular than originally planned.

Varane's future is a little more uncertain, with United opting against the decision to extend his deal for 12 months at a time when they did for Lindelof, Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Hannibal Mejbri - who has since joined Sevilla on loan. Ten Hag insisted the club were in talks with the 30-year-old and Anthony Martial but unless they can come to an agreement, he will also be moved on for free.

Harry Maguire had been up for sale all summer and United even accepted a £30m bid from West Ham for him, but the England international's performances before picking up an injury were encouraging and he has arguably been Ten Hag's most reliable defender in recent months. But there are still questions as to whether he fits into the Dutchman's long-term plans and unlike the previous two, will command a fee.

Similarly, an exit for Lindelof would also see United bring in some much-needed funds, having extended his contract for a further year. As has seemingly happened with Hannibal - who can join Sevilla permanently in the summer - the decision could be in order to protect the defender's value ahead of a summer exit.

United have been linked with a number of central defenders over the past 12 months, most recently Barcelona's Ronald Araujo and Matthijs de Ligt of Bayern Munich. OGC Nice's Jean-Clair Todibo and Everton's Jarrad Branthwaite are also named in the report.