Manchester United is intensifying its efforts to sign Barcelona defender Andreas Christensen as they urgently seek defensive reinforcements following Lisandro Martinez’s latest injury setback.
The Argentine center-back was forced off during United’s disappointing 2-0 defeat against Crystal Palace at Old Trafford, further compounding the club’s defensive woes. With injuries and inconsistency plaguing the backline, the club is now exploring last-minute transfer solutions to address the crisis before the window closes.
This latest loss to Crystal Palace marked United’s 11th defeat in just 24 Premier League games, emphasizing their struggles under Erik ten Hag this season. The Red Devils currently sit in 13th place in the league table, finding themselves 12 points adrift of the final Champions League qualification spot while also sitting uncomfortably 12 points above the relegation zone.
Their defensive shortcomings have been particularly alarming, with Martinez’s recurring injury issues worsening an already unstable situation. As a result, United’s transfer strategy has shifted to finding an immediate solution to solidify their defensive unit.
Following the match, Ten Hag expressed his concerns regarding Martinez’s condition and the emotional toll it has taken on the squad. The Dutch manager underlined the Argentine’s significance not only for his defensive abilities but also for the leadership he brings to the team. With United facing a crucial challenge in shoring up their backline, reports suggest that Christensen has emerged as a primary target to fill the void left by Martinez’s absence.
Christensen, who moved to Barcelona from Chelsea in 2022, has been a consistent performer in La Liga, showcasing composure, tactical intelligence, and defensive reliability. However, Barcelona’s ongoing financial difficulties may open the door for United to lure the Danish international back to the Premier League. His ability to read the game, maintain defensive stability, and bring experience to the squad could be invaluable for United as they aim to regain some control over their defensive struggles.
As the transfer window nears it deadline, the focus remains on whether Manchester United can successfully negotiate a deal for Christensen. If a move for the Danish defender does not materialize, the club may be forced to explore alternative options in their search for defensive reinforcements. The pressure is mounting on Ten Hag and his team, as securing a solid defensive addition could be crucial in turning around what has been a turbulent and underwhelming season for the Red Devils.