footballfancast.com

Approved by Wilcox: "Unbelievable" Newcastle star now leading target for Man Utd in blow for Pif

Manchester United have now identified an "unbelievable" Premier League star as a leading target, and director of football Jason Wilcox has approved a move.

Having earned the Man United job on a permanent basis, signing a two-year contract, which included an extension option until 2029, Michael Carrick has insisted he isn't planning to take any time off, having really enjoyed his time at Old Trafford thus far.

Carrick said: “To be honest, I don’t need a break. I feel good. I think you get in the rhythm of working, really, in different ways. I’ve loved it, I’ve loved every minute of it, so I certainly don’t feel that I need a break.”

The United boss has made a fantastic start, winning 12, drawing three and losing two of his 17 matches in charge thus far, signing off for the season with a 3-0 victory at Brighton & Hove Albion on Sunday.

Man-United-Michael-Carrick

That is despite the ex-Middlesbrough boss having to work with a squad he didn't put together, but he is looking to make some new additions this summer, and a left-back has now emerged as a priority target.

Man Utd identify "unbelievable" star as leading target

According to a report from Caught Offside, Wilcox has now given the green light for Man United to sign Newcastle United star Lewis Hall this summer, with it recently being revealed the defender could command a fee of £55m.

The Red Devils want to sign a 'reliable' and 'modern' left-back, given that Luke Shaw has struggled with injuries at times during his stint at Old Trafford, and the Newcastle defender is deemed to fit the bill.

Wilcox is regarded as a big fan of Hall, who is now a leading target, and he isn't alone in his admiration, with reporter Charlie Bennett describing the full-back as "unbelievable" during the 2024-25 campaign.

The following season, the 21-year-old went on to make 30 Premier League appearances for the Magpies, averaging 2.2 tackles and 1.2 interceptions per 90, which places him third in Eddie Howe's squad on both metrics.

On the face of it, Man United appear to be relatively well-stocked at left-back, but Shaw's aforementioned injury issues may become a problem again, while Mark Goldbridge has insisted Patrick Dorgu should play in a more attacking role, saying: "I definitely don't think he's a left-back. I really don't want him to be used as a left-back.

"At left-back was where he was making mistakes. As soon as he went to left-wing, he changed. You know, his whole performance has changed at left-wing. He hasn't had many good games at left-back. On the wing, he's been immaculate. So for me, he's our winger, we buy a left-back."

As such, Hall, who is now experienced in the Premier League, could be an important addition to Carrick's squad.

Read next: The best left-backs in world football

Read full news in source page