Man Utd explore two new left-back deals as fresh injury shifts transfer focus

Manchester United are stepping up their search for a left-back - a position that has become a burning priority for Erik ten Hag in the final weeks of the transfer window. Luke Shaw is navigating fresh fitness problems and is expected to miss the Community Shield against Manchester City despite his late involvement at Euro 2024 while long-term absentee Tyrell Malacia has been missing since the end of the 2022-23 campaign.

In the past few days, United have held initial dialogue with the representatives of Fenerbahce left-back Ferdi Kadioglu to gain an understanding of the numbers involved in a potential deal.  But they are not alone as Kadioglu has also been the subject of £25million talks with Brighton, who are leading the race for his signature, while another unnamed Premier League club have also taken information on the player.

Arsenal are not thought to be pursuing the 24-year-old Turkey international, who shone at Euro 2024, despite reports of a formal bid in his homeland.  Another player that has been offered to United is 29-year-old free agent Mario Hermoso. The Spaniard quit Atletico Madrid at the end of last season and is predominantly a centre-back but he can also fill in at full-back which would be of appeal to the Red Devils, though his age and salary expectations mean a transfer is considered unlikely.  He has also attracted interest from Italy and Saudi Arabia but is yet to agree contractual terms with a new club. Hermoso recently signed with world-renowned agency CAA Base, who are in the process of sorting a move for their client.  United have also scouted Girona's Miguel Gutierrez and the 23-year-old could yet switch clubs before the transfer deadline after winning gold with Spain at the Olympic Games.  Earlier this summer, United were credited with an interest in Chelsea's Ben Chilwell, who could be available, but it's unclear whether he's an option INEOS are pursuing as there have been no concrete developments to date.

Youngster Harry Amass has impressed throughout pre-season and there could be first-team opportunities for the 17-year-old this season.  In the meantime, work is continuing on a host of other signings including the arrivals of a new right-back, centre-back and central midfield player.  A deal for Bayern Munich's Noussair Mazraoui looks a formality once United have reached a contractual payment settlement with Aaron Wan-Bissaka, who is expected to join West Ham. Interest in Matthijs de Ligt also remains strong.  Paris Saint-Germain anchorman Manuel Ugarte remains a target but United are not willing to meet the current £50m asking price for the Uruguay international. Talks remain ongoing over a surprise move for Burnley's Sander Berge, who wants to move to Old Trafford and there is still a chance United could look to strengthen in the wide areas late in the window.