Our Manchester United fans here in the Transfer Tavern are seriously hoping that star defender Eric Baily can get back to first-team duties as soon as possible.

United have failed to match together a formidable defensive partnership since the Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic days, much to the annoyance of our resident Red Devils. So much chopping and changing has seen many different pairings in the centre of defence, not something you’d usually associate with Man United.

However, none have proven more mistake-prone than England international duo, Chris Smalling and Phil Jones.

Jones came to United as the next big thing, a potential future England captain and Smalling as an up and coming defender highly rated all around. Still, neither have impressed and their recent performances have been nothing short of dreadful.

Our Reds in the bar are hoping to see Jose Mourinho go big on a defender or two in the summer, as Victor Lindelof isn’t working out as planned either. Many of the punters are throwing names about from the big European leagues but our landlord has TWO defenders that could easily replace the pair…

Salif Sane

The Senegalese defender is currently having a great season with Hannover 96 in the Bundesliga, one of the top-rated centre-backs in Europe this season Sane is some force to be reckoned with. Strong, composed and even a palpable goal threat at times, he’d be a wonderful signing at Old Trafford.

He thrives on tackling, much like Bailly. He likes to clear his lines but also has a passing game in his locker alongside being very strong in the air.

James Tarkowski

The Burnley defender, much like his side, is having a brilliant season so far. One of the top-rated defenders in the Premier League this campaign has seen his stock rise and he looks to be an even better version of Michael Keane.

He’s very much an English defender, he likes to get amongst it in and around the box with an overall mindset of protecting his goal, something United could really do with.

It may be a huge step up for the 25-year-old but one many believe he can make at this age.