Manchester United 'eyeing Santiago Arias on a free transfer'

Manchester United are reportedly considering signing experienced defender Santiago Arias on a free transfer.

The Red Devils were believed to be keen to bring a new right-back to the club over the summer, but the window closed with Diogo Dalot and Aaron Wan-Bissaka remaining the options in that area of the field.

Dalot has kept hold of his starting role from the second half of last season, with the Portugal international proving to be an important player under new head coach Erik ten Hag thus far.

However, Wan-Bissaka has allegedly been told that he is surplus to requirements, with the Englishman not believed to be in the manager's plans moving forward.

Ethan Laird was allowed to join Queens Park Rangers over the summer, while Brandon Williams is currently injured and out of favour, leaving the Red Devils short of options at right-back.

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According to journalist Johnson Saenz, the 20-time English champions are interested in bringing Arias to the club as cover in that area of the field.

Saenz claims that the Colombian already 'has his bags ready', with Man United prepared to hand him a two-year contract to make the move to Old Trafford.

The 30-year-old has been without a club since leaving Atletico Madrid on a free transfer in June, making 51 appearances for the capital giants during his time with them.

Arias has also represented Sporting Lisbon and PSV Eindhoven during his professional career, while he had loan spells at Bayer Leverkusen and Granada during his time at Atletico.

The defender is a 54-time Colombia international, representing his country in two World Cups, including facing England in the 2018 competition.

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Arias spent last season on loan with Granada in La Liga, representing the club on 14 occasions, scoring once, but he is now looking for a new club.

The South American's arrival could lead to Wan-Bissaka leaving Old Trafford in January, with Crystal Palace believed to have shown an interest over the summer in their former youngster.

Man United managed to boost their defence over the summer with the arrivals of Tyrell Malacia and Lisandro Martinez, and both players have made strong starts to their careers at the club.

The Red Devils had been due to face Crystal Palace in the Premier League on Sunday, but the upcoming set of fixtures have been postponed following the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

As a result, Ten Hag's side will next be in action against Sheriff Tiraspol in the Europa League on Thursday night.