If their shambolic defensive record hasn’t already pointed out enough, Manchester United are in desperate need of defensive reinforcements in the summer. However, if reports from the Daily Mail late last month were to be believed, Ed Woodward isn’t really keen on spending big on a defender as compared to a midfielder or forward.

Indeed, the Manchester United schemer has reportedly given a limited budget when it comes to signing defenders. Unlike Liverpool, who got their money’s worth in Virgil Van Dijk, Woodward is seemingly unwilling to spend big on centre-backs.

However, now that United are thought to be targeting (as per La Gazzetta dello Sport reporter Nicolo Schira on Twitter) Kostas Manolas, perhaps the club could pick up a great option fairly cheaply.

The AS Roma defender's allegedly available for only €36 million - roughly equating to £31.4m - which is relatively low when you think about. A resolute stopper, the Greek can also be a prized asset to reinforce United’s frail defence line, as he’s strong, determined and isn’t shy of playing rough.

If the Red Devils need a defensive general, Manolas definitely fits the bill.

The 27-year-old is at the height of his powers and has held his own in a problematic season for Roma. He’s helped them keep 5 clean-sheets in 27 appearances while averaging 4.1 clearances, 2 interceptions and 1.3 tackles per game (stats via WhoScored). Out in the Italian capital, Manolas is assertive, dominant and knows exactly when to put in challenges to win battles against strikers.

Alongside Victor Lindelof, he could save Man Utd millions. Yes, the likes of Raphael Varane and Kalidou Coulibaly would be nice, but Manolas is by no means just a cheap option. Someone to do the dirty work alongside the classy Lindelof, the duo could finally give United a solid platform on which to build through to midfield.

As Ole Gunnar Solskjaer needs a powerful figure to add muscle to his defence, Manolas can work really well. Available for cheap, the 27-year-old can work wonders with Victor Lindelof and help bring more reliability to the Red Devil’s defence next season.

United fans, would you be pleased with Manolas' potential arrival? Join the discussion by commenting below...