Manchester United are facing a major fight to land Jules Kounde, with Barcelona and Real Madrid reportedly joining the chase for the Sevilla centre-back.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is in the market for an elite centre-back to partner Harry Maguire next season.
Question marks remain over the ability of both Victor Lindelof and Eric Bailly. Both players have had their moments for United, but have also been vulnerable at times.
Kounde has emerged as a United target in recent weeks, with top target Dayot Upamecano heading to Bayern Munich.
However, it will not be plain sailing for the Red Devils in their chase for the £55million-rated star.
read also:Barca boss Koeman disappointed with Sevilla defeat
Kounde only joined Sevilla in the summer of 2019 from Ligue 1 side Bordeaux.
He has since gone on to make 63 appearances, winning the Europa League last season after victory against Inter Milan.
Indeed, Frenchman Kounde has emerged as one of the top centre-back talents in Spanish football.
Real are looking to rebuild their backline, with Raphael Varane and Sergio Ramos both tipped to leave this summer.
Club skipper Ramos has stalled on signing a new contract, with his current deal expiring in June.
And Madrid chiefs have claimed they could also cash-in on Varane for around £44m.