Manchester United have missed out on one of their summer transfer targets after he was signed by another Premier League side.
Do Manchester United need a new centre-back?
Manchester United's summer transfer window will largely be focused on their midfield rebuild, which could include up to three new signings.
Éderson from Atalanta looks set to be the first deal of the summer, having now agreed personal terms with United, though it remains unclear whether he will be a starter or a backup.
If United have funds left over, they are likely to move for a left-winger and a left-back as well, with strong links to Yan Diomande and Lewis Hall in those positions.
The Red Devils have also been linked with central defenders ahead of the official opening of the summer transfer window. Matthijs de Ligt and Lisandro Martínez have both struggled with injuries since their move to Old Trafford, and a new signing could be looking to bring assurance into the backline.
United lose out on Senesi transfer
AFC Bournemouth's Marcos Senesi is one of the few central defenders to be linked with a move to Manchester this summer, having chosen not to sign a new contract with the now Europa League side.
Andoni Iraola's departure appears to have created a stir at Bournemouth, although Alex Scott looks set to sign a new deal, meaning United will have to explore other midfield options.
Now, it has been all but confirmed that United will have to explore other centre-back alternatives, too, as Fabrizio Romano has reported that Marcos Senesi has signed a four-year contract with Tottenham Hotspur.
Tottenham were among the clubs rivalling United for Senesi's signature, with the main factor behind Senesi's decision being Spurs' Premier League survival.
Now that West Ham United have been relegated, United may pivot from Senesi to Mateus Fernandes. That will not solve their centre-back crisis, but Fernandes seems to be a key midfield target.
Do United need a new central defender?
Michael Carrick already has Ayden Heaven and Lisandro Martínez as options on the left-hand side of central defence, and Matthijs de Ligt, Harry Maguire and Leny Yoro as options on the right side.
However, with United returning to the Champions League, more options may be needed, especially with De Ligt and Martínez's injury issues throughout this season.
A new centre-back would be a sensible acquisition this summer, but it should not be the priority with the midfield issues at the club.
If Director of Football Jason Wilcox wants to sign a centre-back before next season, it should come after at least two, if not three, new midfielders.
