Joaquin Seys: Man United face major rivals in race for Club Brugge star | OneFootball

Manchester United are joined by two of their major Premier League rivals in a red-hot race to sign Club Brugge starlet Joaquin Seys, according to a new report.

Fullback Reinforcements

The Red Devils are currently in the process of finalising plans for a comprehensive overhaul of the first-team squad at Old Trafford.

The bulk of the summer war chest is expected to be directed towards the midfield, with the primary targets set to cost up to, or in excess of, £100 million. A left-winger is another priority in an effort to bring more balance to a lopsided attacking unit.

But reinforcements in defence are also on the agenda, with a new left-back considered important to provide an alternative to Luke Shaw, whose injury record raises concerns about his ability to cope with the return of European football next year.

Sports Boom reveals this has led United to target Seys, Brugge’s flying fullback enjoying a breakout season in Belgium. The 21-year-old is capable of playing on either flank, a versatility understood to be a major attraction to the recruitment department.

The report states scouts delivered “highly positive” reports on the Ostend native, who made his debut for Belgium last year.

Eyed by England’s Elite

The Red Devils are not alone in their admiration of Seys, however, as a transfer war threatens to erupt amongst England’s elite.

Both Arsenal and Aston Villa are also in the hunt, with Sports Boom claiming both of United’s rivals have “already inquired about the player’s terms.”

The Gunners pose a greater threat, given their ascendancy under Mikel Arteta, and are similarly struck by Seys’ “tactical flexibility” as a defensive reinforcement.

But the left-back is not simply a guard for his goal; he is also a potent threat in the opposition half, having returned one goal and four assists in 33 appearances in the Jupiler Pro League.

Seys is described as having “elite-level potential” by recruitment experts as he pairs explosive pace with outstanding technique and defensive instincts for a player so young.

A contract until 2029 gives Brugge a strong negotiating position for their prized asset as they are “not particularly keen on parting with the player just yet this summer.” If interest is formalised from England, however, the Belgian club will “open negotiations in the €30–€35 million range” (£26-30m).

The Red Devils will have to move quickly and decisively to secure Seys’ signature before one of their domestic rivals get the chance first.

Featured image Alex Bierens de Haan via Getty Images

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