New: Man United scout €80 million centre-back ahead of potential January move

Defensive reinforcements will be a priority for a number of Premier League clubs in January, including Manchester United.

Zeno Debast, a highly regarded 21-year-old Belgian center-back who has been making an impression at Sporting CP, is one of the names being considered, according to individuals close to the agencies sector who spoke to CaughtOffside.

Arsenal, Manchester United, and Aston Villa are all investigating possible moves for Debast, despite the fact that he is bound by a long-term contract that expires in 2029.

Man United step up scouting of Debast

In recent weeks, Man United and Arsenal have sent scouts to Portugal in order to thoroughly assess Debast’s play.

According to reports, Man United may try to test Sporting’s resolve with a bid of about €40 million, but that amount is far less than the defender’s €80 million release clause.

However, considering the substantial 15% sell-on clause owing to Debast’s previous club, Anderlecht, Sporting might be amenable to talks below that threshold.

Ruben Amorim influence at Old Trafford

The move might be made possible in large part by Ruben Amorim, who now coaches Debast at Sporting but is also in the Manchester United dugout.

Given that United’s management is reportedly looking for Amorim’s approval before authorizing a significant expenditure, his acquaintance with the player may be crucial.

United’s interest might go from exploratory to solid if Amorim gives the go-ahead.

Other European powerhouses are still in the running, even though Newcastle United’s previous adoration for the Belgian seems to have cooled. Napoli and Borussia Dortmund are monitoring each other.

Sporting has the upper hand in discussions because his contract is set to expire in 2029, but given the level of Premier League interest, a tug-of-war might yet break out in January.

Portugoal were full of praise for Debast, who helped Sporting win the title last season:

“Debast got better and better and has more than justified that the big transfer fee Sporting paid for him last summer. “