Manchester United are considering Barcelona’s Alejandro Balde and RB Leipzig defender David Raum as alternative left-back targets this summer, according to the latest report from talkSPORT.
The club have reportedly made signing a left-back a priority, with the new arrival expected to provide competition for Luke Shaw. Shaw started all 38 of Manchester United’s Premier League matches last season and remains expected to be the club’s first-choice option when available.
However, concerns over Shaw’s fitness in recent seasons, together with Manchester United’s return to the Champions League, have increased the likelihood that the club will recruit another player in the position.
Since January, Carrick has mostly used Doku as a left winger. The club are therefore continuing to assess possible reinforcements who could strengthen the left side of the squad.
Newcastle United defender Lewis Hall is understood to be Manchester United’s leading target. Wilcox is reportedly a strong admirer of Hall, who has been identified as the preferred option for the role.
A deal for Hall could nevertheless prove difficult. Newcastle have lost several important players and may be reluctant to allow another key member of their squad to leave during the current transfer window. Manchester United’s ideal outcome would be to sign Hall, but Newcastle have made it clear they do not want to sell him this summer.
The club have already opened discussions with Hall over a new contract at St. James’ Park, reinforcing the possibility that he could remain with Newcastle United.
Should Manchester United be unable to complete a move for Hall, Fulham left-back Antonee Robinson has also emerged as a possible alternative.
Balde is another name being monitored by Manchester United between now and the close of the transfer window on 1 September. The Barcelona defender is viewed as one of the options under consideration as the club continue their search for a new left-back for Carrick.
Raum is also on the list of potential targets. The German international plays for RB Leipzig and has a release clause worth £34m, a figure that could make his availability clearer than that of Hall.
Manchester United are therefore exploring several possibilities while continuing to pursue their preferred target. Hall remains the club’s dream signing for the position, but Balde, Raum and Robinson could all become relevant if Newcastle maintain their stance.
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