ESPN pundit Shaka Hislop has said that Manchester United should look to pursue the signature of Toby Alderweireld during this summer’s transfer window. The Red Devils are keen on recruiting a new centre-back ahead of next season and so far, they have been on the trail of Leicester City’s Harry Maguire without any success.

Speaking to ESPN, Hislop indicated that United need somehow to make an instant impact at the heart of the defence and Alderweireld remains the perfect option for the role with the experience on his side, he said: “Given the choice between those two at those prices, I go for Alderweireld all day long. Especially for United whose need I think is immediate. Manchester United are trailing everybody in trying to get back into the top four. Age is not that big a barrier or decider in choosing your players. Right now I think Alderweireld is the more sensible option.”

United have been hot on the trail of Maguire over the past few weeks and they are reported to have failed with an opening bid of around £70m for the England international. A second offer of around £75m is supposedly on the horizon but the same could be snubbed by the Foxes, who want at least £90m for the former Sheffield United graduate.

On the other hand, Alderweireld’s future with Tottenham Hotspur continues to remain a discussion point with his current deal due to expire at the end of next season. The Belgian has a £25m release clause which can be triggered during the final fortnight of the summer transfer window and it remains to be seen whether United would consider the option, should they fail in their attempt to land Maguire. United have made two signings during the summer transfer window with Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Daniel James joining the club from Crystal Palace and Swansea City respectively.