Karim Coulibaly: Werder set price for defensive gem amid United interest | OneFootball

Manchester United have officially extended Harry Maguire’s contract following his outstanding performances under Michael Carrick.

Maguire’s previous deal was due to expire at the end of the season. By handing him a new one-year contract, with the additional option of a further 12 months, United have certainly avoided a desperate need to strengthen their backline in the window, where their priority is to overhaul the midfield.

However, the club’s recruitment team appear to still be exploring the market for a defensive player with high potential, which has become a trend under the INEOS ownership.

Manchester United set their sights on Karim Coulibaly

According to Sky Deutschland, Manchester United are among the clubs to have sent scouts to watch Werder Bremen’s Karim Coulibaly.

The “incredibly fast” Germany U21 international has enjoyed a meteoric rise at the Bundesliga club, having only been promoted to their first team at the start of the season. He now has 22 league appearances under his belt.

The left-footed centre-back is a unicorn profile of sorts, possessing an imposing 6’3″ frame, explosive pace, and an exceptional level of composure with the ball at his feet. 

Accordingly, Europe’s biggest clubs, including United, are chasing the 18-year-old defender. Chelsea are ahead of other suitors as they have already made contact with his representatives.

It is claimed that “a Coulibaly transfer this summer is 100 percent planned.”

Werder are seemingly resigned to losing their defensive jewel, but their managing director Clemens Fritz wants €40-50m (£34.8-43.5m) to sanction the youngster’s exit.

Manchester United want Leny Yoro to be more aggressive

United are no strangers to paying staggering fees to secure the services of inexperienced but insanely talented prospects. In 2024, they signed Leny Yoro from Lille in a deal worth more than £50m.

Yoro has shown glimpses of promise, but the Frenchman is yet to establish himself as a regular starter at Old Trafford.

Recently, The Peoples Person relayed a report claiming the coaches at Carrington want Yoro to work on the aggressive side of his game.

Featured image Alex Livesey via Getty Images

The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social