Manchester United Sign Defender Benjamin Pavard from Inter Milan for €45m

Manchester United have completed the signing of French defender Benjamin Pavard from Inter Milan in a deal worth €45m (£38.5m), the Premier League club confirmed on Thursday. The 27-year-old has signed a four-year contract with an option for a further 12 months, ending his one-season stint in Serie A.

The World Cup-winning center-back becomes United's third major summer signing as Erik ten Hag seeks to bolster his defensive options following Raphael Varane's departure. Pavard's versatility to play both center-back and right-back aligns with the club's strategy for tactical flexibility across multiple competitions this season.

Inter Milan reluctantly sanctioned the sale to meet financial targets after securing Pavard from Bayern Munich for €30m last summer. The Nerazzurri will reinvest part of the fee in their pursuit of Bologna striker Joshua Zirkzee, according to Sky Sport Italia. Pavard made 42 appearances for Inter last season, helping them secure a Champions League spot and the Coppa Italia.

The move marks Pavard's return to a league where he previously impressed during Lille's 2015-16 campaign before joining Stuttgart. His experience in England's top flight and proven track record in major tournaments were key factors in United's pursuit. Ten Hag's side begin their Premier League campaign against Fulham on August 16, with Pavard expected to partner Lisandro Martínez in central defense.