Southampton 'targeting January loan move' for Man Utd starlet Brandon Williams

Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl is reportedly ready to bolster his defensive options in January with a loan move for Manchester United starlet Brandon Williams.

The 20-year-old is highly thought of at Old Trafford but has found it difficult to oust Luke Shaw in the starting role at left back this season.

According to the Telegraph, Hasenhuttl wants increased competition for places for starter Ryan Bertrand and sees Williams as perfect for his needs.

The arrival of Alex Telles at United has further stunted Williams' progression and as third choice left back a loan move until the end of the season could be favoured by both sides.

His only Premier League action so far this season came off the bench against Southampton, earning six minutes in the dramatic 3-2 win.

Williams has made two starts for United this season, both in the Carabao Cup.

The Telegraph report added that United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer intervened to stop Williams leaving for Southampton in the summer.

He is seen as one for the future and one coaches at Old Trafford believe has a big future at the club.

But Solskjaer's stance may well have softened now with the youngster desperate to continue his development and play more games.

In the summer he put pen to paper on a new deal with United through until 2024 and so any exit next month would only be a temporary one.

Since making his debut last year, Williams has featured 41 times for United and has one goal to his name, scoring against Sheffield United.