Manchester United have been discussing a move for Fenerbahce star Archie Brown, who has also received a bid from Nottingham Forest.
Michael Carrick's side have been searching for a new left-back, with Newcastle United's Lewis Hall also of interest, and the English defender is keen on a move to Old Trafford, despite interest from Arsenal.
However, it remains to be seen whether the Magpies will be prepared to cash-in, and Brown has now emerged as an alternative option, after making a name for himself in Turkey.
The Englishman has never played a senior game in his home country, opting to cut his teeth abroad, and after making 87 appearances for KAA Gent, he earned a move to Fenerbahce last summer.
archie-brown-fenerbahce
The former Gent man went on to make 25 appearances in the Turkish Super Lig, displaying his quality going forward by picking up three goals and three assists, but former Gent scout Samuel Cardenas has suggested he is a well-rounded defender.
Cardenas said: “He initially played as a central defender and then quickly switched to the left-back position. For us, he is an option for both positions. Archie has all the qualities to succeed here: he is a complete player, fast, athletic, a solid defender, and technically very strong with dynamism and attacking impulses.”
Luke Shaw was also deployed as a centre-back at times last season, so it would make sense to sign a potential back-up who is also versatile, and Brown, who is valued at £16m, has now emerged as an option.
Man Utd discussing move for Archie Brown
According to a report from TEAMtalk, Man United have discussed a move for the Fenerbahce star internally, and they have been in contact with intermediaries regarding a potential deal.
Forest failed with a £14m bid earlier this summer, but United have now surged into contention, even though Hall remains their top target at left-back.
lewis-hall-newcastle
However, agreeing a deal could be difficult, as Fenerbahce have little interest in cashing-in.
Which left-back should Man Utd sign?
Archie Brown
Has been valued at £16m, whereas Hall could cost £60m
Able to fill in at centre-back if required
Has tested himself in different leagues
Could be an aerial threat at six foot three
Contributed more goals and assists last season
Signing another new midfielder will also be very important for Man United, with Manuel Ugarte undergoing surgery for a knee injury sustained at the World Cup, and they have now received a boost in their pursuit of AS Roma star Manu Kone.
The Red Devils are in pole position to secure Kone's signature, having been in constant contact, and the Frenchman is keen on a move to the Premier League.
michael-carrick-man-utd Related
Man Utd launch move to sign World Cup defender for Carrick
An instant boost for the Red Devils...