Manchester United’s pursuit of defensive reinforcements could see them knock on a rival’s door this summer. The Red Devils have looked vulnerable at the back in recent years, and conceded 54 goals in 38 Premier League games last season.
There has not been much of an improvement this campaign either, with the English giants conceding 43 times in 31 games to date. For context, league leaders Arsenal have conceded just 22 goals so far and have a goal difference of +39 compared to United’s +13.
The Red Devils addressed their goalscoring woes last summer, and are expected to focus on midfield at the end of this campaign. However, defensive reinforcements cannot be entirely ruled out at the moment.
Diogo Dalot has divided opinion among fans, so United could look to add a fresh face in the right-back position before the start of the new season.
Right-back woes
The Portuguese has been a constant in the starting XI this season, as a wing-back under former head coach Ruben Amorim and now as a full-back under caretaker manager Michael Carrick. However, Dalot continues to divide opinion among fans, especially with his lack of attacking output.
This season, the 27 year old has registered one goal and three assists in 31 appearances in all competitions, 27 of which have been starts. While Dalot has done well, United lack proper cover for the position, with Noussair Mazraoui also a stop-gap solution.
The English giants are expected to return to the Champions League next season, so they have to add more quality to their squad this summer. It now appears that United are eyeing a Premier League defender to reinforce their backline.
United monitoring Ben White
According to TEAMtalk, United are among the clubs keeping a close eye on Arsenal defender Ben White. The report states: “TEAMtalk previously revealed interest from Manchester City and Everton, and both clubs remain keen as they continue to track his situation closely. City view White as a strong option to bolster their defensive depth, while Everton have long admired his profile and experience.”
“However, they are not alone. Liverpool, Manchester United and Chelsea are all keeping a close watch on developments, with White’s situation at Arsenal firmly on their radar ahead of the summer window.”
White started his career as a centre-back but has primarily played at right-back for the Gunners in recent seasons. The Englishman’s versatility also makes him a lucrative option for United, who could be tempted to sign a new central defender this year.
This season, the 28 year old has registered one goal and two assists in 21 appearances across competitions this season for the north London club.
Ben White Stats: 2025/26 Season
| Competition | Appearances | Starts | Goals | Assists | Yellow Cards | Red Cards | Minutes Played |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| UEFA Champions League | 8 | 4 | - | 1 | 1 | - | 359' |
| Premier League | 7 | 5 | - | 1 | - | - | 411' |
| EFL Cup | 4 | 4 | 1 | - | 1 | - | 313' |
| FA Cup | 2 | 2 | - | - | 1 | - | 148' |
| Total | 21 | 15 | 1 | 2 | 3 | - | 1,231' |
Source: Transfermarkt.
While Harry Maguire has confirmed that he is in talks to extend his stay at Old Trafford, Matthijs de Ligt and Lisandro Martinez’s injury troubles have hurt the Red Devils this season. White could be an option to address the situation, but he is under contract until 2028, and could cost a sizeable fee.
Final Thoughts
White has missed 36 games with various injuries since the start of last season, and is behind Jurrien Timber in the pecking order at the Emirates. While United could be tempted to make a move if an opportunity arises this summer, they must proceed with caution in this pursuit. Perhaps the Red Devils would be better advised to target a specialist right-back instead.
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