Santiago Arias to Man Utd: What’s been reported & how likely is a transfer?

We have the latest on reports linking Manchester United with a move for a new right-back.
Santiago Arias has been linked with a move to United. Credit: Getty.Santiago Arias has been linked with a move to United. Credit: Getty.
Santiago Arias has been linked with a move to United. Credit: Getty.

Manchester United have been linked with a move for right-back Santiago Arias.

The 30-year-old, who is a free agent and therefore eligible for an immediate move to Old Trafford, could compete with Diogo Dalot and Aaron Wan-Bissaka for a starting berth, although reports surrounding this particular transfer are tenuous at best.

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The Colombian is, however, a recognisable name at the top level of European football and has played in Portugal, the Netherlands, Spain and Germany, and has made 16 appearances in the Champions League.

Here’s all you need to know about the reported transfer…

Who is Santiago Arias?

Arias began his career in his native Columbia and made the move to Europe in 2011, signing for Sporting Lisbon.

Arias last played for Granada. Credit: Getty.Arias last played for Granada. Credit: Getty.
Arias last played for Granada. Credit: Getty.

The defender went on to join PSV Eindhoven, where he excelled, winning three Dutch titles and earning the Eredivisie Player of the Year award in 2018.

A move to Atletico Madrid followed and he made 51 appearances for the club. However, Arias spent the last two seasons on loan at Bayer Leverkusen and Granada, before being released by Atletico this summer.

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Arias has won 54 caps for Columbia, the last of which came in 2020.

What has been reported?

Johnson Saenz, a TV presenter for Mundo Canal, has reported Arias has signed a two-year contract with United and already has ‘his bags ready’ for a move.

Meanwhile, journalist Ekrem Konur claimed the defender has been ‘offered’ to the Red Devils.

Diogo Dalot has established himself as first-choice right-back at United. Credit: Getty.Diogo Dalot has established himself as first-choice right-back at United. Credit: Getty.
Diogo Dalot has established himself as first-choice right-back at United. Credit: Getty.

Yet, tellingly, no UK outlets have reported any interest from United, an indication this particular rumour is likely to transpire.

United’s right-back situation

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Diogo Dalot has established himself as first-choice right-back at United, although he’s not short of competition.

Aaron Wan-Bissaka remains his closest competitor, despite not being a part of Erik ten Hag’s long-term plans.

Brandon Williams, who is injured at present, is another option for United, while Ethan Laird played at right-back during pre-season and has not missed a minute of league football since joining Queens Park Rangers on loan last month.

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