Manchester United have been tipped to pursue the signing of Borussia Dortmund center back Waldemar Anton by reports in Germany.
Having struggled with injuries to both Matthijs de Ligt and Lisandro Martínez—arguably first-choice when available— this season, BILD expect United to join the race for Anton, whose impressive performances with Dortmund have also earned him admirers at Atlético Madrid.
Dortmund are expected to try and tie Anton down to a new contract, but the fact his current deal has two years left to run is said to have left suitors believing they may be able to land a potential bargain this summer.
Why Man Utd Might Want Waldemar Anton
Anton, who turns 30 this summer, has spent most of his career flying under the radar. He began his senior career with Hannover before catching the eye with Stuttgart and earning himself a move to Dortmund in the summer of 2024.
Standing at 6'2", Anton has earned a reputation as a no-nonsense defender: the sort that will put their body on the line, relishes an aerial battle and grows in confidence when opponents engage in a physical battle. But that does not actually do him justice.
A smart operater on the ball, Stuttgart were happy to use Anton at the base of midfield to make the most of his passing abilities, although his best performances have come back in the heart of defense.
What sets Anton apart is his leadership and attitude. Those who have worked with him speak of a player who gives everything in training, leads by example and knows how to encourage those around him. A model professional who is expected to be in the running for the Dortmund captaincy if Nico Schlotterbeck does depart this summer.
Fostering that sort of atmosphere has been high on United’s to-do list for years now. Ruben Amorim helped oversee a changing of the guard and Michael Carrick has reminded the squad of what it really means to play for United.
Man Utd’s Transfer Priorities
With Champions League action expected to return to Old Trafford next season, this summer transfer window is likely to be a big one for the Red Devils.
Central midfield is the primary area of concern. Casemiro’s impending departure and the likely sale of Manuel Ugarte would leave just Kobbie Mainoo as United’s only natural midfielder. Club officials are well aware of this and are readying a war chest worth around $250 million to sign at least two of their blockbuster targets, namely Sandro Tonali, Elliot Anderson, Adam Wharton and Carlos Baleba.
Improvements are expected at full back, while a new striker could be needed if Joshua Zirkzee leaves—but fans are divided over whether a new central defender should be found.
On paper, United are well-stocked at center back. Harry Maguire is on the cusp of signing a new contract to commit his future alongside Leny Yoro, Ayden Heaven and the aforementioned De Ligt and Martínez, but fitness issues may force United’s hand.
De Ligt has missed four months with a back injury initially described as a knock and may not return this season, while Martínez has been in and out of the treatment room with knee problems. That sort of depth could quickly prove problematic next season if United advance in the Champions League, FA Cup and Carabao Cup.
A player prepared to join that rotation could be a wise pick-up for United, particularly if it does not break the bank. Somebody like Anton, a low profile gem with a precarious contract situation, is the sort of player that could provide a huge boost to the entire squad.
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This article was originally published on www.si.com as Man Utd Transfer News: ‘Under the Radar’ Bundesliga Star Considered.
