We are just hours away from the transfer deadline, and Manchester United are yet to secure a new left-back.
After deciding to release Tyrell Malacia, United headed into the summer window aiming to strengthen the left flank, as Luke Shaw remains the only natural, senior left-back at Old Trafford.
United have scoured the market, having been strongly linked with the likes of Lewis Hall and Alejandro Balde. Now, it has emerged that they had another high-profile name on their radar.
Manchester United showed interest in Ian Maatsen
According to Sky Sports, Manchester United explored the potential availability of Ian Maatsen before the deadline.
It is understood United are continuing to monitor potential options at left-back and “could make their move if the right opportunity becomes available” before Tuesday’s deadline.
The 24-year-old former Chelsea talent enjoyed a solid season at Aston Villa, playing a key role in their Europa League triumph.
Accordingly, Villa are set to offer Maatsen a new contract to ward off United interest.
“There was no contact between the clubs but Villa do not want to sell Maatsen, who started the season opener against Brighton, and he is expected to be offered new terms soon,” the report states.
United’s only other left-back is youngster Harry Amass, but he is expected to leave the club, most likely on loan. As such, the search is likely to continue until the end of the window.
Aston Villa keen on Amad
Aston Villa, meanwhile, have reportedly made a move for United winger Amad.
Recently, The Peoples Person relayed a report claiming United received an offer from Villa for the Ivorian winger.
However, Amad dreams of winning the Premier League title with the Red Devils. Furthermore, there are no suggestions that United are open to considering bids for their technically gifted winger.
The Peoples Person Reliability Assessment
Overall credibility: 9/10
Why?
✅ Independently backed up by multiple reliable outlets
✅ Aston Villa unlikely to consider a major sale this late in the window
TPP view
We believe United’s interest is genuine, but Villa’s response suggests the pursuit is already over.
Featured image by Alex Pantling/Getty Images
