Manchester United's defensive planning has come under scrutiny in recent days, with one of the club's most trusted centre-backs being linked with a move to Atlético Madrid.
The Argentine defender remains highly regarded at Old Trafford, but his injury record and contract situation mean the club may eventually face a difficult decision.
A departure would still be surprising, given his aggression, leadership, and ability to play progressive passes from defence, qualities that are not easily replaced.
However, with only one guaranteed year remaining on his deal, the club cannot completely ignore outside interest or allow uncertainty to continue deep into the new season.
Atlético's reported interest in the defender has raised questions over the club's future plans, particularly given the defender's original transfer announcement, which included an option for United to extend his contract for another season.
The defender's contract situation and fitness concerns are set to define his next step, with club officials facing a decision on whether to sell or retain control through the extension clause.
When fully fit, the defender remains one of the club's best defenders and provides personality that would be difficult to replace, making a sale without a clear replacement a problem in a squad that is still being rebuilt.
