Evans Set to Sign with Manchester United
Manchester United are reportedly on the verge of offering veteran defender Jonny Evans a one-year contract securing his return to Old Trafford. According to The Belfast Telegraph, the 35-year-old is close to finalising a deal after impressing manager Erik ten Hag with his leadership and composure on the ball. Evans, a product of United’s academy, initially left the club in 2015 to join West Bromwich Albion, but returned on a short-term deal this summer following his release by Leicester City. His performances during pre-season, particularly his ability to provide defensive stability, have led to speculation that he could be retained as cover for the first team. While Evans is unlikely to disrupt the current centre-back hierarchy, which sees Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez as the preferred pairing, his experience would add valuable depth. With Harry Maguire and Eric Bailly both linked with potential moves away from the club, keeping Evans could be a sensible option for United. Evans’ possible return to Everton, which had been mooted earlier in the summer, now seems off the table as he looks set to continue his career at Old Trafford.
Aston Villa Interested in Manchester United’s Kovar
Matej Kovar’s future at Manchester United remains uncertain, with Aston Villa reportedly showing interest in the young goalkeeper. The 23-year-old impressed during pre-season but was left out of the US tour squad following the arrival of Andre Onana, raising doubts about his role at the club. After spending last season on loan at Sparta Prague, where he made 32 appearances, Kovar may now be seeking regular first-team football elsewhere. United are reportedly seeking a fee of €7-10 million for the Czech shot-stopper, according to local media outlet Idnez. While Sparta Prague have been deterred by the asking price, Aston Villa are said to be considering a permanent move. Should Kovar make the switch to Villa Park, he would compete with World Cup winner Emiliano Martinez and current back-up Robin Olsen for a spot in Unai Emery’s squad. There are also rumours of a potential loan move to Championship side Hull City, but whatever happens, United must carefully weigh up Kovar’s development to ensure he continues progressing.
Everton in the Race to Sign Maguire
Everton have reportedly joined the race to sign Manchester United centre-back Harry Maguire, as they look to bolster their defensive options before the transfer window closes. TEAMtalk reports that the Toffees are preparing to raise funds to bid for the England international, with United valuing the player at around £50 million. While it seems unlikely that United will receive such a high fee for the 30-year-old defender, a bid closer to £35 million could be tempting for the Red Devils, who may be open to offloading their former captain. Maguire, who has slipped down the pecking order at Old Trafford, could be seen as surplus to requirements under Erik ten Hag’s leadership. However, sources close to Maguire indicate that he is determined to fight for his place at United, despite being linked with a move away. West Ham United previously had a bid rejected for the centre-back, and it remains to be seen whether the Hammers or Everton will return with an improved offer before the window closes.
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