This defender been a rock at the back for Bayer Leverkusen and has caught the eye of Manchester United, with Liverpool’s Arne Slot having previously praised the German centre-half
Manchester United are reportedly eyeing up a move for Bayer Leverkusen’s towering centre-back Jonathan Tah, who is set to become a free agent this summer. The 6ft 3in German defender has previously earned high praise from Liverpool boss Arne Slot for his performances in the Champions League.
United, who have already conceded a disappointing 51 goals in the Premier League this season, will undoubtedly be looking to bolster their defensive line when the transfer window reopens.
Despite having signed Leny Yoro and Matthijs de Ligt for substantial fees last summer, head coach Ruben Amorim’s system necessitates three proficient centre-backs. With injuries piling up, young and inexperienced players like the now sidelined Ayden Heaven and Tyler Fredricson have been called upon recently.
Tah, a stalwart defender who played a key role in Leverkusen’s unbeaten Bundesliga campaign last season, is one of the names linked. The 29-year-old’s contract expires this summer, and several clubs across Europe, including United, are reportedly interested in securing the services of a player Liverpool boss Slot adjusted his lineup for and praised after a Champions League match.
Sky Sports reports that with Tah’s current contract nearing its end and no new deal in sight, Amorim’s United are among the many teams expressing interest in the defender.
Both Barcelona and Real Madrid are reportedly showing a keen interest in the stalwart defender, too. However, Barcelona’s ambitions might be dampened by their ongoing financial troubles.
A switch to the Premier League could see Tah reliving his Champions League battles with Liverpool – recalling memories of last November’s clash where Leverkusen suffered a heavy 4-0 defeat.
In that match, Liverpool manager Slot paid tribute to Tah’s abilities despite his side’s victory, suggesting tactical adjustments were made by the Reds to counter Tah’s defensive prowess, reports the Mirror.
“I think Tah, who is a really good defender and is one of the best defenders in Germany… maybe the best defender in Germany, maybe likes to play more against a target man, someone who’s there in the middle,” said Slot in November.
“We chose to play Lucho [Luis Diaz] more from the left or the midfield and then maybe surprise him afterwards with runs in behind – not only him but in general.”
Despite United languishing in the bottom half of the league table and relying on Europa League success to secure European football for next season, coach Amorim remains confident about attracting new talent.
Touching on the allure of his club, Amorim was optimistic, affirming: “It’s Manchester United. What I feel is there are a lot of players who want to play for our club.
“I know that if you look at our club in the moment, with all the problems with the staff and people going, changing coach and the results, it looks like a little bit of a problem.
“But we have a clear idea. That is the easiest part to explain to a player. Then it is Manchester United. Everyone wants to play for Manchester United.”
