Erik ten Hag is looking to bring in defensive reinforcements this summer (Picture: Getty)
Erik ten Hag is looking to bring in defensive reinforcements this summer (Picture: Getty)

Bayern Munich star Benjamin Pavard has become Manchester United’s top transfer target in defence but Barcelona are also keen, according to reports.

The 27-year-old France international can operate as a right-back or in central defence as Erik ten Hag looks to bring in defensive reinforcements this summer amid rumours that captain Harry Maguire will leave the club.

Pavard moved to Bayern four years ago and has won four Bundesliga titles as well as the Champions League during his time at the German champions.

He was named in the 2020 Bundesliga Team of the Season and scored the Goal of the Tournament at the 2018 World Cup – which he won with France – before a runner-up finish in Qatar last year, with Pavard registering 48 caps in total.

Pavard has made 43 appearances for Bayern this season but is set to enter the final year of his current deal in July after rejecting a contract extension.

According to French outlet L’Equipe, United have already taken ‘concrete steps’ to sign Pavard, who is also wanted by La Liga side Barcelona in the summer window.

Should Pavard move to Old Trafford, he would link up with fellow France international defender Raphael Varane.

United, meanwhile, announced on Wednesday that right-back Diogo Dalot has signed a contract extension until 2028 with the option of a further year.

‘As a group of players, we all feel like we are at the start of a special journey right now,’ Dalot told the club’s website.

‘I can assure you that I will dedicate myself relentlessly to helping this group to achieve our aims and make the fans proud of this team. That drive continues this week with everyone intensely focused on preparations for the FA Cup final.’

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