Manchester United could still make a move for Villarreal defender Pau Torres this summer, according to Sky Sports journalist Dharmesh Sheth.
The Red Devils are expected to strengthen the heart of their defence ahead of next season after enduring a torrid 2021/22 typified by costly errors across the backline.
What is the latest news involving Torres?
Torres was heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford 12 months ago before the club’s hierarchy opted to sign Raphael Varane from Real Madrid instead.
However, United have reportedly revived their interest in the Spain international in recent weeks, with Marca (via Sport Witness) claiming they are the club with the strongest interest in the player.
And transfer guru Fabrizio Romano recently informed The United Stand that both Torres and fellow target Jurrien Timber would be happy to make the switch to the red half of Manchester.
“Both players (Torres and Timber) would be happy to join,” he told the channel. "I see Pau Torres playing in the Premier League next season because he wants the move and has good chances to move.”
The Daily Mail claim that Torres, who was hailed as "extraordinary" by former coach Javi Calleja, has a £55 million release clause inserted into his contract and is also being closely monitored by Tottenham Hotspur.
What has Sheth said about Torres?
United have been credited with an interest in stars such as Frenkie de Jong, Antony, and Timber this summer, but Sheth has refused to rule out them attempting to snap up Torres.
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He told GiveMeSport: “One other name is Villarreal’s Pau Torres, who's been linked with United for the past couple of summers and a number of other clubs. But with Torres, there's a feeling that his preference would be to go to a club that's in the Champions League.
“He tasted a good run with Villarreal last season when they got to the semi-finals, but that might not be the decisive factor. So, don't rule United out potentially going in for Pau Torres as well.”
Would Torres be a good signing?
There is little doubting Torres’ ability with the ball at his feet. As per FBref, the 6 foot 3 ace has ranked in the 99th percentile for dribbles completed and the 90th for both progressive carries and progressive passes compared to fellow centre-backs over the last year.
However, his ability in the air and to compete physically with the demands of the Premier League are serious doubts that continue to linger over his suitability for English football.
Torres ranked in just the 29th percentile for aerial duels won, highlighting his deficiency when the ball goes above shoulder height and that is perhaps the reason United have been hesitant to pay his release clause so far.