Manchester United are exploring a move for Espanyol defender Omar El Hilali ahead of the January transfer window.

FootballTransfers understands that representatives of the 23-year-old were at the club's Carrington training ground this week.

In searching for a more reliable foundation, United have turned their attentions to El Hilali, who is primarily a solid defensive player. He is regarded as a physically strong defender who has an athletic approach to the game and excels in one-on-one situations, who has developed into an important player for Espanyol in recent seasons.

He notably left Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior frustrated during May’s clash between the clubs, which was headlined by the feisty battle between the pair.

“Stop being stupid, ask me to swap shirts later… You’re stupid, you want to fight,” the Brazilian told El Hilali, according to Marca. “Idiot. You’re an idiot.”

El Hilali has a talent for getting under the skin of opponents, but he is also very reliable, too. Since August 2024, he has missed only four league matches – all because of suspension.

El Hilali: A budget option who could become central to Man Utd’s future

There are several interesting aspects to the potential deal.

El Hilali is in the final year of his contract at Espanyol, with his current agreement due to expire in June 2027. This unlocks the possibility of a cut-price deal. His Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) sits at €14.8 million, which is a price that makes him an attractive proposition.

He also shares the same agency as United captain Bruno Fernandes, while his ability to operate across the back four adds to his appeal especially with a defence that has been plagued with problems in terms of both form and fitness this season.

The Morocco international is primarily a right-back but can also provide cover at centre-back and left-back.

And according to SciSports, he could develop into an important player at Old Trafford, should he reach his potential, with the data analytics experts forecasting him to become a ‘key’ player up there with Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha as the most important in the Man Utd squad.

El Hilali is, therefore, one to watch ahead of the January transfer window as Man Utd look for option to strengthen their defence in what is increasingly shaping up to be a relegation battle at Old Trafford in 2027.