Manchester United are reportedly preparing a £35million bid for Borussia Dortmund centre-back Waldemar Anton.
TEAMtalk reports that Michael Carrick has approved the potential move. The 29-year-old Germany international has emerged as an experienced option for United’s defensive rebuild.
United were previously reported not to be actively pursuing a centre-back. Carrick’s approval of the Anton move would therefore represent a notable change in their summer planning.
Michael Carrick Targets Proven Defensive Cover
Anton is not the most glamorous name in United’s transfer plans, but that may be part of his appeal.
The defender brings substantial Bundesliga experience and can also provide cover at right-back. His contract runs until 2028, leaving Dortmund in a strong negotiating position.
United’s Champions League return makes defensive depth more than a bench-management concern. Lisandro Martinez and Matthijs de Ligt both endured injury-disrupted campaigns, while Harry Maguire has signed a one-year extension.
At £35million, Anton would offer limited resale value. United would be paying for immediate reliability rather than long-term potential.
That distinction matters. Carrick already has younger defenders who need development, but United also require players capable of handling major matches immediately.
Dortmund are unlikely to make negotiations straightforward because Anton remains an important senior figure. However, a serious bid would show Carrick wants proven competition rather than another project.
United’s summer cannot rely entirely on statement signings. The squad also needs dependable additions who can make it stronger before August.
