Manchester United preparing to launch bid for AS Roma centre-back

'The Greek God in Rome'

Manchester United's upturn in form recently has seen Victor Lindelof continue to improve, while Eric Bailly has returned to the starting XI after being knocked down the pecking order by José Mourinho. But there remain question marks over both, and very little quality in United's back-up options. Chris Smalling, Phil Jones and Marcos Rojo are all still at the club but United are keen to strengthen in defensive areas. They have reportedly prepared a £34m bid for AS Roma defender Kostas Manolas, according to Italian news outlet Tutto Mercato Web. Manolas has been a key part of Roma's defensive unit since 2014 when he joined from Olympiacos, and the 27-year-old could be set for a move to Man United this January. A £34m bid would trigger his release clause, leaving Roma no choice but to let him go should the defender choose to join the Red Devils this January. Both Chelsea and Arsenal have also shown interest in the defender, who has established himself as one of the best centre-backs in Serie A. United, or more specifically Mourinho, wanted to sign either Toby Alderweireld or Harry Maguire last summer, but Manolas' release clause makes him a much more affordable option. Manolas will be best known among Premier League fans for his late winner against Barcelona in the Champions League quarter-final last season, a goal that gave us one of the most iconic pieces of commentary from Peter Drury. https://twitter.com/btsportfootball/status/1013825472092884994?lang=en