Manchester United’s defensive options have come under increasing scrutiny during a difficult start to the season.

Michael Carrick has five senior centre-backs available in his squad, but having numbers has not necessarily guaranteed consistency at the back.

Matthijs de Ligt only recently returned after a lengthy absence following back surgery, leaving questions over how reliably he can feature across a demanding season.

Leny Yoro has impressed since returning to the team, although Carrick recently revealed that the youngster has been managing a recurring tendon issue.

Lisandro Martinez looks like a shadow of himself from years gone by, while Harry Maguire provides experience and Ayden Heaven offers another option.

With fitness concerns and the demands of competing in multiple competitions, United may still look towards strengthening their long-term defensive options.

Erik ten Hag confirms offer submitted for Manchester United linked player

One defender attracting their attention is FC Twente teenager Ruud Nijstad, with Bayern Munich also monitoring the 18-year-old Netherlands youth international.

According to Twente Insite, several major European clubs have registered concrete interest, although the youngster has already committed his immediate future to the Eredivisie side.

Ruud Nijstad has enjoyed a breakthrough at senior level after making his first-team debut aged 17 last year.

The left-footed centre-back made 24 appearances for Twente last season, scoring once, and has continued to establish himself as a regular starter.

Standing at approximately 1.95m, he combines an imposing physical presence with the ability to build play from the back.

This season, he has featured regularly in the Eredivisie and European competition, scoring once in the league.

Twente technical director and former United manager Erik ten Hag addressed the growing interest, saying, “I don’t know, but there is indeed interest in him.

“Several clubs from the top 8 in Europe have made concrete offers. But he simply made a very conscious choice to play for FC Twente this season.”

He continued, “He is a very great talent who joined the team last season. He is still very young, but he does so in a very self-assured manner.

“It is a pleasure to work with that boy. Quite a few clubs from the top of Europe have come forward. I think that is only a good thing.”

Manchester United could be among the eight European clubs referenced by Ten Hag, having already been linked with the highly rated teenager.

Ten Hag also praised the teenager’s decision to remain at Twente, adding, “It is also particularly nice that he very consciously chose to stay with Twente for at least another year.

“Maybe even longer, but in any case, this season.”

Nijstad signed a new contract in June, keeping him at the Dutch club until 2029.

Twente are determined to retain him for the season, meaning United may have to wait before making a serious move.