Manchester United have identified Atletico Madrid right-back Marc Pubill as a transfer target, according to a report from CaughtOffside.
The 22-year-old defender is protected by a staggering €500 million release clause, making any potential deal extremely complicated from the outset.
Atletico Madrid have no interest in selling Pubill and are under no pressure to sanction his departure this summer.
It remains to be seen whether Manchester United decide to test Atletico’s resolve with an attractive offer for the young Spaniard.
Pubill offers versatility that would appeal to many top clubs, as he can operate in central defence as well as at full-back.
Manchester United are in the UEFA Champions League and require squad depth to rotate players, keep key men fresh, and avoid injuries across a long campaign.
The 22-year-old is reportedly enjoying his football at Atletico Madrid and has no desire to force an exit from the Spanish capital.
If the deal proves unworkable, Manchester United are advised to shift focus toward other defensive targets, particularly a quality left-back and a central defender.
Liverpool are also closely monitoring Pubill’s situation, with the club needing to replace Ibrahima Konate following his decision to leave.
Chelsea are equally interested, with Pubill viewed as a quality alternative to defenders Benoit Badiashile and Axel Disasi at Stamford Bridge.
Atletico Madrid remain firmly opposed to losing such a promising young talent as they pursue their own ambitions in La Liga and the UEFA Champions League.
