Manchester United are preparing a £35million offer for Borussia Dortmund centre-back Waldemar Anton, with head coach Michael Carrick reportedly endorsing the move, according to a report. The potential transfer comes as United seek to bolster their defensive options ahead of the 2026-27 season.
United have already secured a £38million deal for Atalanta midfielder Ederson and are planning further additions across the pitch, including at least one more midfielder, a left winger, a centre-forward, a left-back, and a centre-half. The need for defensive reinforcement stems from injury concerns surrounding Lisandro Martinez and Matthijs de Ligt, with INEOS, the club’s ownership group, worried about their long-term fitness.
While Harry Maguire has signed a one-year contract extension, Carrick is understood to be looking for a long-term alternative. Anton has emerged as a viable option, having established himself as a reliable and experienced leader within the Dortmund squad. The 29-year-old primarily plays as a right-sided centre-half but offers versatility, being capable of filling in at right-back when required.
Carrick believes Anton could seamlessly integrate into the United team, and the club are optimistic about securing his signature, as his contract with Dortmund is set to expire in June 2028. While Dortmund are attempting to negotiate a new deal with the 14-time Germany international, Anton may be tempted by the prospect of a move to Old Trafford and the financial benefits it would bring.
Dortmund could be a key source of transfer targets for United this summer, with reports also suggesting interest in midfielder Felix Nmecha. United and Liverpool have both held discussions with intermediaries regarding a potential deal for the 25-year-old, who previously came through Manchester City’s academy. A bid of around £52million is believed to be sufficient to secure Nmecha’s services, though United’s midfield priority currently appears to be Mateus Fernandes.
