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#3. Ben White - Arsenal
Ben White is another promising option that Manchester United could have considered instead of Varane.
The Englishman signed for Arsenal from Brighton and Hove Albion in July 2021 for a reported £50 million. White was the target of several clubs in the window, with Arsenal ultimately signing the player on a five-year deal.
White has instilled a fresh ray of hope into the Arsenal backline ever since he signed, displaying excellent defensive acumen, White and the rest of the Gunners' backline have enabled the club to challenge for the top four once again.
White's record since signing speaks for itself; he has been instrumental in the club's defensive success this season. He has kept nine clean sheets for Arsenal this season.
#2. Kalidou Koulibaly - Napoli
Kalidou Koulibaly is a player who has been incessently linked with Manchester United in the past.
The Senegalese plays for Napoli in Serie A and has represented the club for the past seven years. Koulibaly is widely considered one of European football's best defenders.
Koulibaly has bags of experience under his belt and has played over 400 competitive games in his career. He is extremely strong and quick and is renowned as one of the most complete defenders in the game.
Koulibaly has been linked with United several times in the past. There were times when the transfer seemed complete but fell through due to various reasons. Considering Koulibaly is now 30, it is unlikely United would move to sign him.
He should still be an option worth considering, as the Senegalese still plays like he is in the prime of his youth.
#1. Matthijs De Ligt - Juventus
Matthijs De Ligt is one of the world's best young defenders.
The Dutchman made his name with Ajax and received a multitude of offers in the summer of 2019. He went on to sign for Juventus in July 2019 for a reported €75 million, becoming one of the most expensive youngsters in football history.
De Ligt has since grown exponentially as a player. Featuring regularly for the Turin outfit, he has developed his game and evolved into one of the most complete defenders in the world.
The 23-year-old has previously won the prestigious Golden Boy award in 2018 and also Serie A with Juventus in 2020. De Ligt displays an extremely high ceiling and is regarded by many as the brightest prospect in football currently.
