Reports | Manchester United defender Eric Bailly sidelined for at least four months

Manchester United star Eric Bailly had just recovered from a knee problem that ruled him out of the Africa Cup of Nations recovering in time for pre-season. But in a pre-season friendly against Tottenham, Bailly had to be stretchered off the field again, with Solskjaer later confirming that he has injured his knee.

The 25-year-old from Ivory Coast has had a torrid time with injuries at Old Trafford but has always been a stand-out player when he fit. The centre back suffered a similar injury to his right knee last season which dented Man United’s squad and their hopes of Champions League football. He finished last season with only 8 Premier League appearances and just one appearance in the top flight since February.

Bailly has a gruelling spell of rehabilitation ahead of him, Solskjaer reporting that he will miss atleast four months of action. But with the Red Devils heavily linked with a host of centre backs, one name has stood out this summer.  Harry Maguire is the club’s top target and after Bailly’s injury, the club will be on their toes to get a deal for the England international over the line.

Figures in the region of £80 million have been thrown around as Maguire’s transfer fee but whether Eric Bailly’s absence will accelerate the pursuit of the Leicester City star is still to be seen.