Manchester United are still keeping close tabs on Villarreal defender Pau Torres, according to journalist Dean Jones.

The Red Devils are yet to make a signing this summer but are expected to be active in the transfer market over the coming months as new manager Erik ten Hag begins his revolution.

What is the latest news involving Torres?

A recent report from the Daily Mail claimed that United were interested in snapping up Torres following another impressive season for Villarreal.

It’s believed the 25-year-old has a £55 million release clause written into his contract and is also attracting interest from fellow Premier League sides Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea.

Meanwhile, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has revealed that Torres would be open to making the switch to Old Trafford after coming close to doing so 12 months ago.

The Spain international is said to be to open to departing the Yellow Submarine after they missed out on Champions League qualification, and it seems England is a likely destination.

What has Jones said about Torres?

United have been credited with an interest in several centre-backs so far this summer, yet Jones doubts whether the club ‘are as desperate’ for reinforcements in the heart of defence as many people think.

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He told GiveMeSport: “Pau Torres is still in the mix in terms of defenders, and they've got other people they can turn to. And I don't think they are as desperate for that centre-back as people probably assume they are.

“I think they feel that they can probably, especially in the first phase of the season, get through it considering that we've only got a few months of the season, and then we're into a World Cup, and then we're into a January transfer window.”

Do Man Utd need Torres?

Improving United’s defensive record is likely to be one of Ten Hag’s priorities for the upcoming campaign following their dismal showing in 2021/22.

Last season, the 20-time English champions leaked 57 goals in their 38 top-flight fixtures, the second-highest total in the top-half of the table, and four more than relegated Burnley.

However, whether the Dutch tactician feels a new central defender is required to do so remains to be seen.

United can still call upon the services of Harry Maguire, who enjoyed an outstanding 2020/21 for both club and country, and Raphael Varane, who has claimed four Champions League crowns and is a World Cup winner.