Manchester United Make Transfer Enquiry for Borussia Dortmund Defender Waldemar Anton
Manchester United have reportedly made an official enquiry regarding the availability of Borussia Dortmund's German international defender Waldemar Anton, according to sources in Germany. The Red Devils are actively scouring the market for defensive reinforcements ahead of the upcoming transfer window.
Defensive Priorities at Old Trafford
While Manchester United prioritized and spent approximately £200 million to overhaul their attacking options last summer, the club's focus has now shifted to strengthening their defensive line. Central midfield remains a key area of concern, but left-back and centre-back positions have been specifically identified as requiring reinforcement.
Manager Michael Carrick has faced limited options at centre-half in recent weeks, with growing concerns over the persistent injury problems affecting Lisandro Martinez and Matthijs de Ligt. These fitness issues have prompted United to seek potential long-term solutions in the transfer market.
Anton Emerges as Target Alongside Other Defenders
According to Sky Germany, Dortmund centre-back Waldemar Anton is attracting significant interest from Manchester United, who have made an enquiry to learn more about his current situation. Atletico Madrid are also reportedly monitoring the defender.
Nottingham Forest's Murillo is believed to have several admirers at Old Trafford and has emerged as another profile who could provide reliable cover and competition at the heart of the defence. However, Anton represents a more established option with Bundesliga and international experience.
Dortmund's Stance on Anton's Future
Borussia Dortmund are not actively looking to sell Anton, as the 29-year-old is regarded as a key player, defensive leader, and indispensable part of their starting lineup. While Nico Schlotterbeck is reportedly closer to signing a new contract, there are concerns within Dortmund's hierarchy that his centre-back partner Anton could be persuaded to leave.
Anton's current contract with BVB runs through to 2028, and talks over a possible extension are expected to begin in due course. The defender has previously attracted interest from Bayer Leverkusen, who made an unsuccessful move for him in 2024 when Xabi Alonso was in charge, before Anton ultimately joined Dortmund from Stuttgart.
Anton's Commitment to Dortmund
In a recent interview with Ruhr Nachrichten, Anton distanced himself from transfer rumors, insisting he remains fully focused on winning silverware with Borussia Dortmund.
"Whether there are rumours or not, I don't even notice them," he explained. "To be honest, I'm not interested. It doesn't matter if it's about me or anyone else. There's always a lot of speculation in football. A club like Borussia Dortmund wants and should be competing for titles. I'm very keen to do that."
Atletico Madrid have held an interest in Anton since before he joined Dortmund and throughout his early years at Westfalenstadion, adding another potential competitor for his signature should he become available.
The transfer enquiry represents Manchester United's proactive approach to addressing their defensive concerns, though any potential move for Anton would likely require significant negotiation given his importance to Dortmund and his long-term contract situation.
