Manchester United have added a World Cup star to their transfer radar, who caught many by surprise during the competition.
Michael Carrick WILL have a say in transfers this summer!
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Manchester United's primary focus this summer has been on rebuilding their central midfield after Casemiro left the club at the end of last term.
Manuel Ugarte's ACL injury has complicated matters further, with the Uruguay international expected to be out of action for most of the season, if not the entire campaign.
Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans have already moved to Manchester United – along with Karl Darlow, Cristian Orozco and Tynan Thompson – but United will know they need more if they are to challenge in the Premier League, Champions League, Carabao Cup and FA Cup.
A left-back will be another position of interest for United, especially if Patrick Dorgu is to play higher up the pitch next season. As it stands, they have just Luke Shaw in that role, with Harry Amass playing there in the second half against Wrexham.
Left-back seems to be lower down the priority list than a third midfielder or even a centre-forward, but that does not mean the recruitment team are ignoring the position. During the World Cup, they would have been scouting and assessing several different options, including some who impressed in North America.
Football Insider has reported that Djed Spence, who surprised many with his performances for England, has emerged on United's transfer radar.
Spence's future at Tottenham Hotspur remains in doubt, given he was not a regular towards the end of last season after Roberto de Zerbi took charge in North London.
The 25-year-old can play on either side of defence (as a right or left-back), which could be a good option for Michael Carrick next season.
Gary Neville appears to be a fan of the Tottenham full-back; before the second group match of the tournament, he said: "I think Spence is someone again who will play a big part in this tournament, whether it's right-back or left-back, because I think he's like a leech when he defends.
"He's very aggressive in his work and he's got a great tenacity about him. Spence also went forward very well when he came on (against Croatia) and nearly scored, so I do think there will be some tweaks in the defence."
Everton and Inter Milan are also known to be interested in Djed Spence, with Tottenham reportedly demanding £40 million for his services.
On paper, Djed Spence would not be a bad signing for Manchester United. He's quick, aggressive, versatile and not too expensive.
So, what is the issue?
Michael Carrick already has Noussair Mazraoui. He is not the first choice at right-back, but he can also play left-back to an impressive level – as seen by his impressive performances at the World Cup. Sound familiar?
Spence would be a good signing, but if Manchester United can only sign one full-back this summer, a left-footed left-back would make more sense than a more versatile option.