Report: Manchester United eyeing move for Sevilla's Kounde

Manchester United will consider making a move for Sevilla center-back Jules Kounde during the January transfer window if the club is unable to rectify its defensive issues internally, sources told Rob Dawson of ESPN.

Any potential deal for the Frenchman, however, would be contingent on Ole Gunnar Solskjaer shipping out at least two current central defenders - Phil Jones and Marcos Rojo, both omitted from the team's Champions League squad, would be the most likely candidates.

The Red Devils have struggled mightily in their own end this season, conceding 11 goals in just three Premier League matches thus far. Only newly-promoted West Bromwich Albion (13) have given up more.

Solskjaer wants to allow both Eric Bailly and Axel Tuanzebe to prove that one of them can cement themselves as captain Harry Maguire's first-choice partner.

Victor Lindelof's continued struggles have created a glaring hole beside Maguire, who has also looked sluggish this season.

Along with Kounde, who would likely cost around €65 million, United are monitoring Villarreal center-back Pau Torres, according to Dawson.

Kounde was a reported target for Manchester City during the summer transfer window, but he ultimately stayed put as Pep Guardiola's side opted to sign Portuguese international Ruben Dias from Benfica.