It’s no secret that Erik ten Hag faces one of the most important transfer windows in Manchester United’s recent history this summer.
The Red Devils finished sixth in the Premier League last time around, and next year will mark a full decade since they won their last league title in Sir Alex Ferguson’s final season in charge.
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Something needs to change, and fast. With the Dutchman arriving at a club in turmoil, there will be cautious hope that he can bring back the good times at Old Trafford.
For that to happen, new blood will be required, especially in the heart of defence. French journalist Fabrice Hawkins stated that United are keen on signing Evan Ndicka from Eintracht Frankfurt this summer, and a fee of around £17m could be enough to secure the services of the player, who is out of contract at the end of next season.
With journalist Christopher Michel describing the 22-year-old as the “complete package”, he could well be an excellent upgrade on Harry Maguire.
Ndicka possesses a much greater goalscoring threat from the heart of defence than the Englishman, netting four times last season in the Bundesliga whilst also grabbing four assists, with Maguire only scoring once in the English top flight.
The Eintracht Frankfurt also won more tackles (43) and made more blocks (74) and interceptions (64) than the 29-year-old (26, 46 and 53 respectively) proving that his defensive attributes are first-class.
The 22-year-old is also quite mature for his relatively young age, being cautioned only three times all season, compared to Maguire's nine bookings and one red card in 2021/22.
While the Old Trafford faithful may be excited about pursuing big names, Ten Hag might be better off looking at players such as Ndicka, a no-nonsense centre-back who could be available for what seems like a bargain price.
The Frenchman looks like he could settle in with ease at United, so now it's up to the manager to make his move. Based on the above evidence, it seems a no-brainer.