Manchester United are reportedly seriously considering signing Newcastle United left-back Lewis Hall, and it’s easy to see why the club’s scout team would prefer him.
According to FlashScore, INEOS is impressed with three specific areas of Hall’s game: his ball development, his ability to support attacks, and his defensive discipline.
These are exactly the qualities United need if they want to build a more balanced squad under Michael Carrick.
Hall is thought to be open to a summer move, but Manchester United’s director of football Jason Wilcox is said to be a big fan.
Stretty News, citing talkSPORT, reported that Wilcox has helped increase United’s interest, but any move could have to wait until after England’s World Cup period if Hall is selected by Thomas Tuchel.
Lewis Hall has impressed at England’s top clubs
Hall is the type of modern full-back that big clubs are always looking for.
He’s not a defender who just steps back and makes things simple. He can carry the ball forward, combine in midfield areas, overlap when necessary and help his team move up the pitch.
The progressive aspects of his game are probably one of the biggest reasons for United’s interest.
Man United’s left flank needs proper care for some time. Luke Shaw has quality, but injuries have often been an issue in recent seasons.
Tyrell Malasia left as a free agent and Patrick Dorg is often seen as more useful higher up the pitch than a traditional left-back.
That means United need someone who can bring reliability and tactical flexibility.
Manchester United need Hall’s versatility in their squad
Hall could probably suggest that. Although he is only 21 years old, he already has a wealth of Premier League experience and is progressing well at Newcastle.
As a product of Chelsea’s academy, he is able to play as a left-back, wing-back and also slot into the midfield zone.
That kind of versatility could be attractive for Carrick, especially if Manchester United want to be more flexible tactically.
But Newcastle are not expected to make things easy. Hall’s contract runs until 2030 and recent reports suggest the Magpies have no intention of selling him unless a major offer arrives.
TEAMtalk reported that Newcastle value him at around £55 million and would not want to lose him even if United were interested.
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