Ben Nelson: Why United are interested in Leicester defender | OneFootball

Major chunk of Manchester United’s transfer budget will be spent on their midfield overhaul, with Ederson looking likely to be the club’s first signing of the summer.

According to The Daily Mail, apart from midfield, United want to strengthen their attack and backline as well, but much “depends on the cost with prices escalating in a very competitive market.”

Accordingly, two Championship stars have emerged on the club’s radar heading into the summer transfer window.

Manchester United eyeing Ben Nelson

The Daily Mail claims Leicester City centre-back Ben Nelson has drawn Manchester United’s attention.

The 6ft 5in tall defender can also play at left-back and was a “big favourite” of former Leicester boss Enzo Maresca, who is succeeding Pep Guardiola at Manchester City.

It is believed Nelson was also being watched by City and Chelsea not long ago. 

Nelson, who is an England U21 international, has been praised for his pace and versatility by Maresca.

The 22-year-old made 24 appearances in the Championship in the recently concluded season, scoring a goal and registering an assist. 

Shea Charles on Manchester United’s shortlist

The report adds that United are also assessing Southampton’s £25 million-rated Shea Charles, who was signed by Jason Wilcox from City.

Charles, 22, is regarded as “a player who would prosper at the highest level”.

Both Charles and Nelson are not seen as first-team starters by United and instead are being monitored as players with potential to provide greater squad depth.

Furthermore, it has been previously reported that Wilcox is an admirer of Leicester’s Jeremy Monga, having already held formal talks with the Foxes over a potential summer deal for the English winger.

Featured image Ed Sykes via Getty Images

online polls

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