Manchester United could postpone making a bid for Red Bull Leipzig defender Dayot Upamecano after members of the board raised concerns over a move for him this summer.
Solskjaer is keen to sign a fast defense partner for Harry Maguire, which would allow United to play a higher line next campaign and put more pressure on opponents through high press.
Upamecano is seen one of the finest prospects in football and his eye-catching performance in Leipzig’s Champions League quarter-final win against Atletico Madrid in August caught the attention of several teams in Europe.
Solskjaer has suggested the 21-year-old as the club’s next signing after the £40 million acquisition of Donny van de Beek from Dutch side Ajax.
But, according to the Telegraph, there is debate within Manchester United whether the club should move ahead with plans to sign the Frenchman.
RB Leipzig value him at around £60m but a clause in Upamecano’s contract means he can leave for around £40m next summer, meaning a huge reduction in these financially-challenging times.
But some members of the club’s board have raised doubts over Upamecano’s readiness for a move to Old Trafford.
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Though the player’s ability is not in question, Upamecano is only 21 and some feel he would benefit from at least another season in the Bundesliga before making the transfer.
Solskjaer must now convince his board not to postpone a transfer move for another 12 months, when the race for his signature will be hotter than it is currently.
Manchester United spent £30m on Victor Lindelof and Eric Bailly and, while neither have been disappointing, still none are considered top level defenders.
The club’s board are therefore not willing to shell out even more in a challenging climate for a defedner that may take another three to four years until he becomes the real deal.
