Waldemar Anton: Dortmund make decisive move to block United move | OneFootball

Borussia Dortmund are reportedly ramping up efforts to scupper a potential Manchester United swoop for defender Waldemar Anton.

United want Anton

While United are prioritising midfield reinforcements this summer as they prepare to play in the Champions League next season and potentially mount a title charge, they are not neglecting other positions, especially if market opportunities become available.

The defence is one such area. Matthijs de Ligt is poised to miss the start of the new campaign as he continues his recovery from a back injury. Then there are Lisandro Martinez and Harry Maguire, who have proven that they cannot be relied upon to remain consistently fit.

For all their evident talent, Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven still require a seasoned presence alongside them as they continue to find their footing at this level.

A report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that United are eyeing Anton. The 29-year-old has been one of the best players in the Bundesliga over the past few years, especially raising his profile since moving to Dortmund from VfB Stuttgart.

Anton brings a reassuring presence to the backline, his composure in possession and defensive intelligence marking him out as a fine example of the contemporary central defender.

There were even suggestions that United were poised to lodge an opening bid for the player, who made two appearances for Germany at the World Cup.

But, according to Kicker, Dortmund have no desire to part ways with Anton.

Bold step

Kicker claim that Dortmund are keen to offer Anton an expanded role at Signal Iduna Park, underlining his importance and status within the squad.

He will be viewed as the third captain, behind Emre Can and Nico Schlotterbeck. Both stars are currently dealing with injuries, so there is a real chance that Anton could be wearing the armband when the new season kicks off.

So determined are Dortmund to retain his services that they are preparing a new deal for the player, despite his existing contract running until 2028.

This new contract will come with increased wages. Dortmund are hopeful that these shows of faith will convince Anton that his long-term future lies at the club, and ward off interest from suitors such as United.

Featured image Fabio Deinert via Getty Images

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