If his playing time is restricted by Erik ten Hag next season, Manchester United defender Eric Bailly would welcome a reunion with Jose Mourinho at Roma, according to Sky Sports’ Dharmesh Sheth.
The 2021/22 season was challenging for the Ivory Coast international, which was managed by three different people. In the end, he only participated in fewer than 500 first-team football games.
This prompted rumors that he might leave this summer, and even though he performed admirably for United during their most recent preseason trip, that is still the case.
Bailly came out with outstanding performances in the second half of friendlies, but Ten Hag was still reluctant to pick him from the starting XI alongside the regular starters.
It is now reported that Roma is interested in signing Bailly. The 28-year-old would consider reuniting with Mourinho at the Giallorossi if a suitable transfer offer is made.
Bailly was Mourinho’s first signing as United’s head coach in 2016.
Man Utd could sell Bailly for the right price
Bailly has earned praise from many fans for his pre-season performances, but United will still be wary of his injury record which has been a concern for the past six seasons.
The Ivorian is capable of standing out with his defensive showing on his day but has not been able to produce the same level of displays over long periods amid injuries.
Ten Hag may still want to keep him for another season, but he could be below Harry Maguire, Lisandro Martinez, Raphael Varane, and Victor Lindelof in the pecking order.
It is unlikely that the center-back would accept another reduced role with the team. If Roma comes up with a suitable bid, it won’t be a surprise if the Red Devils consider it.
Bailly was purchased from Villarreal for £34.2 million six years ago. United are unlikely to get a fee close to that figure but could be tempted if they receive around £10m.
His potential departure could urge Ten Hag and United to pursue another young center-back, considering Varane has also had a concerning injury record over the years.
With Phil Jones and Axel Tuanzebe possibly leaving, Ten Hag may have to place his trust on Will Fish, who is highly inexperienced. It remains to be seen how this unfolds.
