Five Must-Sign Center Backs Man Utd Should Chase Down This January—Ranked

Mauricio Pochettino's first move as Manchester United boss could see him pursue Fulham center back Calvin Bassey, who is reportedly set to "feature prominently" on the club's transfer wishlist this January.

The Red Devils have suffered a dreadful start to the campaign, with much of the blame falling on a leaky defense that has shipped 30 goals across all competitions—the second-worst record of any side in Europe's top five leagues.

Michael Carrick failed to shore up a struggling backline before his departure, and fixing that will be Pochettino's top priority from day one. While he must work with the existing squad over the coming six weeks, the January window will give him and United's leadership a chance to strengthen defensively.

According to The Telegraph, Bassey is "considered a strong option" by the record Premier League champions, who are expected to be drawn to his athleticism, pace and positional flexibility.

The 26-year-old is due to be out of contract at Fulham next summer, though the club holds an option to extend his deal by a further 12 months. No asking price or valuation has been disclosed at this stage.

The Nigeria international could appeal to United, but here are four other center backs the club should also consider targeting this January.

5. Finn Jeltsch

Finn Jeltsch has no shortage of admirers. The promising VfB Stuttgart defender has already been linked with the likes of Barcelona, Inter Milan and several Premier League heavyweights.

The 20-year-old's swift rise from Germany's second tier with Nürnberg to Stuttgart's starting lineup has caught the eye of a growing number of clubs, who have been won over by his composure, technical ability and maturity beyond his years.

Jeltsch has featured in both of Jürgen Klopp's Germany squads since the former Liverpool manager took charge, highlighting the confidence placed in him by one of football's most respected coaches. Sebastian Hoeneß, another highly regarded, attack-oriented manager, has similarly been keen to hand the talented youngster regular opportunities in recent months.

Despite being an undeniably exciting long-term prospect, Jeltsch's absence of Premier League experience would make him a gamble, while potentially hindering the development pathways of Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven.

4. Calvin Bassey

There's little question that Bassey would bring qualities United are currently crying out for in their defense. Most notably, the Fulham man possesses electric pace and raw power, making him a daunting opponent that most attackers would rather avoid in a one-on-one situation.

His ability to fill in at left back only enhances his value, particularly given United's thin options in that area and Luke Shaw's troubling injury record. He could prove a cost-effective acquisition from that standpoint, potentially addressing several defensive concerns at once.

Bassey is a more than capable Premier League defender, but there are legitimate questions about whether he can consistently meet the standards demanded at Old Trafford, particularly when the club must balance European and domestic commitments.

United may be able to aim higher, with Bassey turning 27 on New Year's Eve and having never played for a club with ambitions of this magnitude.

3. Malick Thiaw

Newcastle United endured a painful summer window as they lost Bruno Guimarães, Sandro Tonali and Anthony Gordon, as well as manager Eddie Howe. They have found it difficult to adjust under Matthias Jaissle ever since, which could make a departure more attractive for key asset Malick Thiaw.

The powerful German shares certain traits with Bassey, combining an impressive build with surprising speed for a player of his stature. He demonstrated that blend of strength and athleticism during a standout debut season at St James' Park in 2025–26, making 54 appearances and contributing five goals.

The 10-cap Germany international is also comfortable in possession, and his 89.6% pass completion rate in the Premier League last season surpassed that of Virgil van Dijk, Gabriel and every United player regardless of position.

The primary obstacle in any pursuit of Thiaw would be the transfer fee. The 25-year-old cost Newcastle $40.8 million upfront, and the club will expect a substantial profit should they eventually choose to sell.

2. Murillo

Murillo is another established Premier League defender who has attracted widespread admiration in recent seasons, and while his reputation has taken a slight hit amid Nottingham Forest's recent difficulties, the Brazilian continues to be a coveted target for top European clubs.

Few defenders combine the same level of defensive intelligence, physical presence and ball-playing ability as the 24-year-old, who has earned particular praise for his composure under pressure and willingness to carry the ball through opposition lines.

Excellent recovery pace means he is rarely exposed despite his aggressive style of play, and he brings the trademark South American tenacity that often manifests in last-ditch tackles and fierce duels with opposing strikers.

Cost could again be a barrier, with Murillo previously valued at over $100 million during his peak in 2024–25, though United may look to capitalize on his slight dip in form to negotiate a more favorable fee.

1. Jarrad Branthwaite

United's pursuit of Jarrad Branthwaite is nothing new. Having previously made moves for the Everton center back before his serious hamstring injury, they continue to regard him as a key transfer target as they seek to overhaul their struggling defense.

The 24-year-old's injury record may give United pause for thought, particularly after Branthwaite managed just 10 appearances last season, but his strong start to the current campaign—which has included two England call-ups—is a timely reminder of his quality.

Branthwaite is somewhat more traditional than Thiaw or Murillo, with his defensive solidity and commanding physical presence more central to his game than his technical ability in possession. But United are desperately short of leaders at the back, and his determination and commitment are beyond question.

There is no shortage of quality central defenders in the Premier League, but few are as well-suited to United's current needs as Branthwaite.