Manchester United add surprise names to full back shortlist as search for new signing intensifies

Manchester United started the 2023/24 season with a crisis at the left-back position, as both Tyrell Malacia and Luke Shaw found themselves sidelined due to injuries.

Accordingly, towards the end of last summer’s transfer window, United were left scrambling for a left-back before eventually signing Sergio Reguilón on loan from Tottenham Hotspur.

Twelve months later, the situation is not much better, as Erik ten Hag heads for the pre-season tour without any senior left-back to rely on. In fact, Aaron Wan-Bissaka is the only senior full-back named in the gaffer’s squad for the USA tour.

Malacia is seemingly still far away from returning to action. Meanwhile, Diogo Dalot and Luke Shaw remain out of contention for now due to their involvement in the Euros. Both are entitled to a minimum three-week break.

According to The Telegraph, this predicament has intensified the Red Devils’ aim to strengthen their full-back options.

With Wan-Bissaka, whose contract at Old Trafford is due to expire next year, allegedly attracting interest from West Ham United and Galatasaray, United have been linked with Noussair Mazraoui.

Ten Hag’s former Ajax right-back, who is currently at Bayern Munich, is seen as a potential option at right-back in the event Wan-Bissaka departs.

Earlier this week, The Peoples Person covered a report claiming United are also monitoring AS Monaco’s right-back Vanderson and Bayer Leverkusen’s flying wing-back Jeremie Frimpong to address the right side of their defence.

United are also understood to be “exploring permanent and loan possibilities” to strengthen the left-back position.

In that regard, Crystal Palace left-back Tyrick Mitchell and Feyenoord’s David Hancko, who is capable of playing at left-back as well as centre-back, have been mentioned as potential options.

The Mirror, meanwhile, has thrown Marcos Alonso’s name into the mix. The former Chelsea left-back is also reportedly on United’s shortlist.

The Spaniard is a free agent upon the expiration of his contract at Barcelona this summer. As such, financially he could emerge as the most attractive option to provide cover for Shaw.

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