Manchester United are enjoying such a wonderful run of form recently that the January transfer window was almost put on the back burner.

Nonetheless, Erik ten Hag did sign three players in Jack Butland, Wout Weghorst and Marcel Sabitzer, who all arrived at Old Trafford on loan deals until the end of the season. It appears the Dutchman isn’t just splashing the cash for the sake of it, instead targeting long-term success when it comes to incoming transfers, with three players aged 24 or younger signed last summer.

It was a solid if unspectacular transfer window from Ten Hag, but considering their recent excellent form, the Old Trafford faithful would be right to put their trust in the man who has the chance to end their trophy drought.

However, perhaps one criticism from January was the failure to sign another defender, with the Red Devils clearly needing someone to replace Harry Maguire, who has started just eight times in all competitions this term.

United were linked with Inter Milan defender Stefan de Vrij at the end of the month as they aimed to seal a bargain move, considering that his contract expires at the end of the campaign.

They missed a trick by not managing to lure him to the club last month, but he could still sign a pre-contract agreement as of now, and the Dutchman would be a major upgrade on Maguire.

His former Lazio team-mate Mauricio dubbed the 30-year-old a “monster”, and he is someone who could prove to be hugely important to Ten Hag from next season.

The 6 foot 2 titan has simply been the better player when compared to Maguire this term, especially when considering a wide range of defensive metrics.

As per FBref, De Vrij comes out on top for tackles won (eight to three), challenge success (85.7% to 75%), interceptions made (26 to seven), aerial duel successs (67.3% to 52.9%) and clearances made (41 to 21) this term compared to the Englishman, albeit having played more games.

The Inter Milan defender has also won more ground duels during league action this term (66% to 54%) while keeping four clean sheets to Maguire’s two, with the statistics suggesting that De Vrij would be a major upgrade on the United centre-back.

The 30-year-old will also bring a winning mentality to Old Trafford, having secured the Serie A title in 2021, along with winning a Coppa Italia and three Italian Super Cup titles.

If Ten Hag wants a cut-price option who could help to stabilise a defence which is still in the early stages of its development, all while replacing Maguire, signing De Vrij this year could be an excellent piece of business.