Manchester United’s defeat against 10-man Newcastle United underlined a major weakness in the wide areas.
Both Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha tend to drift inside, which makes it more difficult for United to stretch opposing defences, especially since they also lack full-backs who consistently overlap and maintain width.
It has been widely reported that United want to sign RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande. However, the Bundesliga club are reluctant to part ways with the Ivorian, who is valued at €100 million.
Manchester United weighing up move for Nico Williams
According to a report in Spain, as relayed by Sports Mole, Manchester United are now considering making a “spectacular move” for Athletic Club attacker Nico Williams.
It is claimed United have been alerted by Athletic’s willingness to sell Williams this summer. Arsenal, Liverpool and Bayern Munich have also been linked with the winger, known for his explosive pace and exceptional dribbling.
In 2024, Jose Mourinho snubbed Lamine Yamal and insisted he is “more of a Nico Williams fan”.
The 23-year-old Spaniard’s contract in Bilbao includes a release clause of €90m in his current deal. However, it is thought that the La Liga side are willing to sell Williams for less than his release clause.
Williams famously turned down Barcelona last summer, which led to the Blaugrana signing Marcus Rashford from United on loan.
Manchester United should be wary of Nico Williams’ fitness
It is not far-fetched to say that Williams’ decision to stay at his boyhood club has not worked out as he would have hoped.
The Spain international has endured a difficult 2025/26 season, having managed just 10 goal contributions in 26 appearances. The Athletic star has also struggled with a chronic groin issue.
As such, United should think twice before spending a considerable sum on a possibly injury-prone player.
Apart from Diomande and Williams, the Red Devils are interested in Bournemouth winger Marcus Tavernier, who is also capable of playing as an attacking midfielder.
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