Manchester United have identified Newcastle United left-back Lewis Hall as a potential summer signing, with Fulham's Antonee Robinson also under consideration as the club looks to strengthen its defensive options. A new goalkeeper and a midfielder are also high on the priority list.
Defensive Reinforcements Sought
United will return to the Champions League next season, and with Patrick Dorgu expected to play in a more attacking role, Luke Shaw is currently the only senior left-back heading into the new campaign. Diogo Dalot and Noussair Mazraoui can provide cover if needed.
According to Sky Sports, Hall is admired by key figures within United's hierarchy and is a player they 'could look to act on if the opportunity arises.' The 21-year-old, who was overlooked for Thomas Tuchel's World Cup squad, is seen as a long-term prospect, especially with Shaw's contract expiring next year.
Hall's Situation at Newcastle
Earlier this month, reports suggested that Hall had submitted a transfer request at Newcastle amid claims of a falling-out between Eddie Howe and the defender. However, sources at ChronicleLive understand this is not accurate, and that the pair ended the season on positive terms.
Elsewhere, Robinson remains on United's radar and is expected to attract attention during the World Cup while representing host nation the United States. The impending appointment of a new manager at Craven Cottage could cast doubt over the 28-year-old's six-year stint at Fulham.
Goalkeeper and Midfield Targets
United are also pursuing a back-up goalkeeper, with Andre Onana, who has returned from his loan spell at Trabzonspor, not expected to be given the chance to compete for the No. 1 jersey during pre-season. Altay Bayindir is another likely departure following Senne Lammens' impressive maiden campaign. Returning goalkeeper Radek Vitek, who spent the season on loan at Bristol City, is also expected to leave.
United continue to explore additional midfield recruits despite completing the signing of Atalanta's Ederson. Mateus Fernandes has been mentioned as a potential target, with contact already established with the player's representatives in recent days. However, West Ham are believed to be seeking around £85 million to sell the Portuguese midfielder — more than double the £42 million they paid for him a year ago.
The Hammers need to generate funds following their relegation to the Championship, and Fernandes' former club Southampton hold a 15 per cent sell-on clause on any future sale.
Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson also ranks highly on United's list of targets, but they would have discovered that a fee exceeding £120 million would be required for the East Midlands club to consider a sale. This is because Manchester City have already had a second bid for Anderson turned down. That offer is reported to be £106 million plus £15 million in bonuses, yet Forest are said to be holding out for a package totalling up to £130 million — £110 million upfront and £20 million in add-ons.
Despite rejecting two bids, Anderson has made no secret of his desire to join City, which could effectively rule United out of the running.
Confirmed Exits
United have confirmed the departures of Casemiro, Jadon Sancho, and Tyrell Malacia, as well as academy prospects Sonny Aljofree, James Bailey, and Malachi Sharpe.
