Manchester United are reportedly preparing to strengthen their defensive line during the 2026 summer transfer window.
This move comes after the club secured a place in the UEFA Champions League by finishing third in the 2025/2026 English Premier League season.
The Red Devils are said to be aiming to enhance their squad quality to remain competitive across multiple competitions next season.
According to a report from SportsMole on Wednesday (3 June 2026), Manchester United are currently considering a move for Borussia Dortmund centre-back Waldemar Anton.
United manager Michael Carrick is believed to be planning to bring in several new players during this transfer window, particularly to bolster the defence.
In addition to strengthening the midfield, Carrick has reportedly turned his attention to securing a new central defender to increase squad depth.
As reported by The Mirror, Manchester United have already sent their scouting team to monitor the progress of Waldemar Anton.
The club are said to be preparing an offer worth £35 million, approximately Rp847.34 billion, to secure the player’s services.
Anton joined Borussia Dortmund from VfB Stuttgart in 2024 for a transfer fee of around £18 million, or approximately Rp435.68 billion.
Since then, the 29-year-old defender has developed into one of the key figures in Borussia Dortmund’s backline.
His consistent performances have earned him a reputation as one of the most reliable defenders in the Bundesliga over recent seasons.
In addition to his club performances, Anton has made 12 appearances for the German national team and was included in Julian Nagelsmann’s squad for the 2026 World Cup.
Still from the SportsMole report, Manchester United are expected to take more concrete steps after the 2026 World Cup.
This is because Anton’s performance during the tournament could influence his market value in the transfer window.
Although he remains under contract with Borussia Dortmund until 2028, Anton’s reported desire to take on a new challenge in the Premier League could open the door to a potential transfer.
Manchester United’s interest in Anton stems from the current state of their defence.
The futures of Lisandro Martinez and Matthijs de Ligt remain under scrutiny, as both players have struggled with fitness issues over the past few seasons.
This situation has prompted United to consider adding another centre-back who can provide stability and competition within the squad.
Meanwhile, Manchester United’s transfer activity this summer is not limited to strengthening the defence.
The Red Devils have reportedly reached an agreement with Atalanta to sign Brazilian midfielder Ederson.
United are said to have agreed on a transfer package worth £38.8 million, equivalent to Rp939.04 billion, for the player after finalising personal terms.
In addition to Ederson, Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson also remains on Manchester United’s radar ahead of the summer transfer window.
(Compiled by Della Eka Prasetya, Intern from STMIK Amikom Surakarta)
