With just a few days left in the summer transfer window, Manchester United are looking to see if they can get one or two more deals over the line
Manchester United manager Michael Carrick
Michael Carrick is looking to finalise his squad as we count down towards transfer deadline day
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Manchester United have already invested heavily in reshaping their squad this summer, but with the transfer window now entering its final stretch, there is still work to be done at Old Trafford.
Midfield has been the main area of focus after a couple of years spent rebuilding both the attack and defence. The Reds have committed around £150 million to strengthening the centre of the pitch over the past couple of months, with Andrey Santos arriving from Chelsea, Youri Tielemans making the switch from Aston Villa and Carlos Baleba joining from Brighton.
However, Michael Carrick's squad is not quite complete yet. United are still looking for defensive reinforcements, with the search for a new left-back proving particularly frustrating. With time running out before the deadline, United may have to consider alternative solutions as they look to complete their summer business.
New left-back priority
Manchester United are now considering a short-term signing at left-back as the transfer deadline approaches.
Strengthening that position has become increasingly important, with Luke Shaw entering the final year of his contract and manager Michael Carrick seemingly seeing Patrick Dorgu primarily as a winger rather than a natural full-back.
United's preferred options appear to be slipping away, leaving the club with fewer possibilities to pursue. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano says a loan move for a left-back is now being considered before the window shuts, potentially mirroring the club's decision to sign Sergio Reguilon from Tottenham on a temporary deal in 2023.
"I will not be surprised if they [United] end up with a solution for a player who can be almost a guarantee, so maybe not a superstar name like Balde, because they considered Balde... but the deal is too expensive," he said on his YouTube show.
"But just as a comparison, you remember when United signed Sergio Reguilon? [It will be] something similar. That kind of player, an experienced left-back who can provide competition and also an international profile."
Chelsea defenders 'eyed'
Manchester United have reportedly been given the chance to sign Chelsea centre-back Tosin Adarabioyo and are also said to be interested in his team-mate Josh Acheampong.
The 28-year-old, who came through Manchester City's academy, looks increasingly likely to depart Stamford Bridge this month after being left out of Chelsea's 3-2 victory over Fulham. His No. 4 shirt has also been handed to new signing Valentin Barco.
Tosin
Tosin has reportedly been offered to Man Utd
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According to talkSPORT, United want to bring in another centre-back before the transfer window closes, giving them greater depth alongside Matthijs de Ligt, Harry Maguire, Lisandro Martinez and Leny Yoro. Their need for another defender has become more pressing following injuries to Yoro, Martinez and De Ligt.
Tosin could reportedly be available for approximately £20m. United are also claimed to hold an interest in his Chelsea team-mate Josh Acheampong, although the teenager is regarded as 'untouchable' and Chelsea are not prepared to consider selling him.
Tosin spent 17 years with Manchester City after joining their academy in 2003. He eventually made his senior debut in 2016, but managed only eight appearances for the club before moving to Fulham in 2020. It was at Craven Cottage where he established himself as a regular Premier League defender.