Manchester United are prioritising a move for a new left-back over a left winger this summer, according to Manchester Evening News journalist Tyrone Marshall.
The Red Devils have been busy since the end of the Premier League season and have already reached a verbal agreement to land Atalanta midfielder Ederson.
The club have also opened negotiations with West Ham United for midfielder Mateus Fernandes, and there is optimism that a deal can be struck for the Portuguese.
Marshall has now revealed that the club’s next target could be a left-back rather than a left winger.
With Patrick Dorgu viewed as a wide attacking option, it is unlikely that a left winger will join.
United are admirers of Newcastle United left-back Lewis Hall, and a deal could be done.
United right to prioritise a new left-back after Fernandes
Luke Shaw stayed unscathed during the 2025/26 season with United. He started every league game for the Red Devils, but was unlucky to miss out on World Cup selection with England.
His World Cup snub could be a blessing in disguise for United as the Southampton graduate has the opportunity to freshen up ahead of the club’s pre-season campaign next month.
Still, United must be wary of Shaw’s long injury record. The Englishman has been sidelined with more than 30 injuries in his time at the club and has missed well over 200 games in all competitions.
The low workload (40 matches) meant that Shaw managed to stay injury-free, but his fitness could be put to the test next season. United could play 60 or more games if they go deep in the European and Cup competitions.
There is a risk of injury to Shaw, which could derail the club’s campaign, given that Dorgu is not the best positionally as a defender. Hence, a new left-back should be prioritised this summer.
Hall would be a fine acquisition for United. The Chelsea graduate won an impressive six duels and two tackles per league appearance last season, while making more than four recoveries.
Hall also averaged three clearances per outing. The 21-year-old started only 24 of Newcastle’s 38 league games last term, and could be prepared to accept a rotational role at United to start with.
With Shaw almost 31, Hall has the opportunity to prove his credentials and become an undisputed starter in the long run. It has been reported that he could be prised away for £50 million.
Stats from Sofascore.com