Surprise bid? Manchester United targets Brighton s Pervis Estupiñán

Manchester United is reportedly pursuing a deal for Brighton & Hove Albion defender Pervis Estupiñán, a development that has raised some eyebrows given the club's existing options at left-back. Sources close to the situation indicate that United has held discussions with the Ecuadorian international's representatives, though they are not alone in their interest, with AC Milan also keen on acquiring the 27-year-old.

Brighton appears receptive to offers for Estupiñán, particularly after their recent acquisition of Belgian international Maxim De Cuyper from Club Brugge, who has signed a five-year deal to bolster their left-back position. Estupiñán himself has entered the final two years of his contract with the Seagulls, potentially paving the way for a transfer.

Since joining Brighton from Villarreal in 2022, Estupiñán has been a consistent performer, making 104 appearances across three seasons. Last term, he featured in 30 Premier League matches, contributing a goal and an assist.

The pursuit of Estupiñán comes despite Manchester United's considerable depth at left-back. Tyrell Malacia has recently returned from a loan spell at PSV, joining established first-team options Luke Shaw and Patrick Dorgu, who signed from Lecce in February. New manager Ruben Amorim seemingly has several choices for the position.

This potential incoming transfer also follows the departure of former Red Devils left-back Alvaro Carreras, who recently completed a £43 million move to Real Madrid from Benfica. Carreras had spent four years at Old Trafford, including loan stints at Preston and Granada, before making his loan move to the Portuguese side permanent. He ultimately left United in May 2024 without making a senior first-team appearance.

United has already been active in the summer transfer window, securing three new signings. Their most notable arrival to date is Brazilian forward Matheus Cunha, who joined from Wolves for £62.5 million in June on a five-year deal. The club is also reportedly monitoring Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson's situation and has been in a battle to sign Bryan Mbeumo from Brentford. Manchester United is set to kick off their pre-season campaign with a friendly against Leeds in Stockholm this Saturday.