Manchester United seem willing to go all-out to sign RB Leipzig defensive mainstay David Raum in the upcoming transfer window.

Manchester United have identified RB Leipzig captain David Raum as a top January target to address their defensive shortcomings, according to Caught Offside.

The club is shifting its recruitment focus towards strengthening their defence, with left-back and centre-back emerging as priority positions. Raum is viewed as one of the most attainable high-level options available, with the Germany international reportedly keen to test himself in the Premier League.

The 28-year-old’s contract situation could make a winter move particularly attractive. His current agreement with Leipzig expires in the summer of 2027, leaving the Bundesliga club facing the prospect of losing him for a reduced fee or on a free transfer if he does not sign an extension.

Raum is understood to welcome a move to Old Trafford and offers immediate quality for a squad prioritising experienced depth over long-term development.

United’s left-back depth problem stems from Patrick Dorgu shifting to winger and Luke Shaw’s fitness concerns, despite avoiding injury during the previous season.

The club failed to recruit a specialist left-back in summer; Raum would provide competition for the English international while offering the reliability needed to establish himself as a regular starter.

The Leipzig skipper is an aggressive attacking full-back who delivers consistently from wide areas, while his defensive game has also developed considerably. His profile aligns with Carrick’s preference for immediate-impact signings who can challenge established starters.

Former Leipzig manager Marco Rose previously praised his importance to the team, highlighting his mentality, tackling and ability to create opportunities.

Other defensive targets of Manchester United

United are also monitoring Barcelona’s Alejandro Balde, who has struggled for regular minutes this season, while Bournemouth’s Adrien Truffert remains another option. Everton centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite is admired as well, although his reported £80 million valuation could make a January deal difficult.

Balde may offer greater long-term potential, while Branthwaite could strengthen the centre of United’s defence. However, Raum’s experience, contract position, and reported eagerness to join make him United’s most straightforward defensive addition in the January window.