After strengthening in the middle of the park, Manchester United are expected to address their issues at the back.
One area badly in need of reinforcements is left-back, with Luke Shaw the only specialist option currently in the squad.
The Englishman had started every single Premier League game last season, but INEOS are wary of his poor injury record, which is why they are keen to bring in an eventual successor.
Michael Carrick is expected to hand minutes to both Diego Leon and Harry Amass in pre-season to see if they can take up the mantle.
United have options beyond Lewis Hall
Should the academy youngsters fail to grab their chance, the Red Devils have a list of options they plan to explore in the market.
Lewis Hall of Newcastle is the priority, but the Magpies will not make it easy for the 20-time English league champions, despite the England international’s desire to join a Champions League club.
This is why i News have revealed that United also have Barcelona’s Alejandro Balde on their list of alternatives.
“Crysencio Summerville and Everton’s Iliman Ndiaye are two wing options being explored, at the right price, while Alejandro Balde from Barcelona is an option at left-back.”
Alejandro Balde would be an astute purchase for a lower fee
The Spaniard is expected to cost in the region of £43 million, significantly less than Hall. With his minutes drying up post-January, the 22-year-old could look to jump ship.
Also, given Barca’s desire to agree another loan deal for Marcus Rashford, United could possibly use that as leverage to agree a lower fee.
The Catalan’s explosive pace and ball-carrying ability would be a great addition to the squad, and would significantly strengthen the left flank, something Carrick is desperate for.
Whether INEOS go all out to land Alejandro Balde will be interesting to see. They do prefer Premier League proven options, but his immense potential might be too hard to ignore.
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