Manchester United and Liverpool battle for Champions League defender

Old Premier League rivals Manchester United and Liverpool are set to battle in the transfer market for a new Champions League defender.

Manchester United and Liverpool have both started the season in differing form. Where Liverpool are fourth in the Premier League table, their rivals Man United sit in eighth place. Although, only five points separate the two sides after nine games, so the gap isn’t too large.

With both clubs locating the same calibre of players in the January transfer window, there is expected to be transfer tussles between the two long-time rivals. Although, the main differential could be Man City hoarding all the wealth and boasting Champions League football this season.

Speaking of the illustrious European competition, both Manchester United and Liverpool have been keeping a keen eye on the competition, with scouts being sent to watch a defender play his first minutes in the competition.

Manchester United and Liverpool compete to sign Robin Le Normand

According to a report by TEAMtalk, Manchester United and Liverpool both like what they have seen what Robin Le Normand in his first spell in the competition. Playing for Real Sociedad, the defender has played in each of their opening three Champions League fixtures, being a debutant in the competition this season.

According to Fabrizio Romano, the Real Sociedad defender’s release clause currently stands at £43.6m. Should either club wish to skip the negotiation stage, this is an option to trigger which would guarantee first contact with the player. Although, given the current climate both clubs are operating in, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see them involved in a bidding war to obtain the player for a cheaper price.

Meanwhile, Erik ten Hag is considering re-signing a former player of his on a short-term deal.

Who do you think will sign Robin Le Normand?