Football Digest: Analysing Man Utd's failed recruitment
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag may be about to push promising youngster Alvaro Fernandez towards the exit door. An injury crisis at Old Trafford has presented a golden opportunity for the Spaniard to impress, but the Red Devils are reportedly looking to recruit another player to cover Luke Shaw’s injury.
United have been caught short at left-back, with Shaw set for several weeks on the sidelines after succumbing to a muscular issue. The England international’s usual deputy, Tyrell Malacia, has been out injured since reporting back for pre-season training.
Meanwhile third in the pecking order, Brandon Williams, signed for Ipswich Town on loan earlier this week. The unfortunate turn of events has paved the way for Fernandez – a left-back by trade – to bank his first senior appearances for the Red Devils.
The 20-year-old was snapped up from Real Madrid’s academy three years ago, and he was a regular during an impressive loan spell with Preston North End last season.
Don’t miss… Rubiales repeatedly screams ‘I will not resign’ as press conference boils over
But according to the Manchester Evening News, United are now in the market to sign a left-back on a short-term basis. Such a move would deny Fernandez his chance to impress, and potentially push him to find a new club.
The youngster made it clear earlier this summer that he wants greater responsibility, telling AS: “Hopefully I can stay in the United first team. If it doesn’t happen and I have to go out on loan, then [I will] keep working hard and keep growing.
Man Utd boss Erik ten Hag could seal desperate star’s fate with last-minute transfer plan
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
Read more…
Ivan Toney appoints Bale and Grealish’s agent as ‘Man Utd join transfer race'[LATEST]
Chelsea ‘make Romelu Lukaku U-turn’ as Mauricio Pochettino hatches new plan[TRANSFERS]
Tottenham move in danger, Man Utd eye another striker, Lukaku exit close[BLOG]
“I am 20 years old and what I want is to play. But if it can be at United, much better. I have been called [by] great Championship teams. And Preston wanted to continue counting on me. In case of going out on loan, I would say that the time has come to go to a top league, but not necessarily to the Premier League or La Liga.”
Spanish top-flight side Granada are reportedly interested in Fernandez, who ‘could leave’ Old Trafford before next week’s transfer deadline. The talented prospect was named United’s U23 Player of the Year in 2022.
Aside from Fernandez or whichever new recruit United are able to get their hands on, Ten Hag will also have the option of shifting Diogo Dalot across from right-back or moving left-footer Lisandro Martinez over from the centre.
Fans will receive clarity on the Dutchman’s plans to overcome the injury setback when Nottingham Forest visit Old Trafford on Saturday afternoon.
Source: Read Full Article