Manchester United’s defensive rebuild could soon shift to the left-back position, with Michael Carrick looking to add a young long-term option ahead of the new season.
Luke Shaw remains an experienced and reliable player when fit, but United need greater competition and a clear succession plan if they are to return to the Champions League.
The target players will be players with Premier League experience, strong technical ability and the energy to contribute on both sides of the pitch.
But Newcastle’s tumultuous summer means it could be very difficult to convince them to lose another important first-team player.
Manchester United believe the left-back wants to join the team
According to TEAMtalk, Lewis Hall remains Man United’s first choice left-back and the club are confident he would welcome a move to Old Trafford.
The 21-year-old is reportedly attracted to the opportunity to work under Carrick and establish himself as Shaw’s eventual successor.
Hall was initially expected to compete for minutes rather than arrive with a guaranteed starting position.
While United want a specialist left-back, Patrick Dorg is seen as a more advanced attacking option, so this route could still be attractive.
Shaw is approaching 31 years old, but young defenders Harry Ammas and Diego Leon are not yet considered ready to become regular first-team starters.
Will Newcastle United let their full-back leave?
Newcastle have already lost Anthony Gordon to Barcelona and Sandro Tonali to Tottenham, but Bruno Guimarães wants to move to Arsenal.
Sky Sports report that the Magpies are making changes to their main squad and remain determined to prevent any further damaging departures.
Hall would be a fantastic long-term signing for Manchester United. He is young, used to possession and already understands the demands of the Premier League.
However, United should avoid paying too much just because Carrick is their preferred option. Newcastle have strong reasons to resist and talks could easily exceed the reported £60m valuation.
United need to test Newcastle with a serious offer, while also having alternatives in place. Hall is a perfect fit for this project, but building a smart team requires discipline as well as ambition.
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