Aston Villa are reportedly expected to offer Ian Maatsen a new deal after Manchester United were credited with an interest in the one-time Netherlands international.
Maatsen, 24, is still under contract until the summer of 2030, but United are said to have explored his potential availability during this transfer window. The former Chelsea left-back started Villa's opening match of the Premier League season, which they lost 4-0 to Brighton & Hove Albion, before being subbed late on for Matteo Ruggeri.
Villa's stance on Maatsen
Villa paid Atletico Madrid around £17million for the Italy international. However, they do not seem to want to sell Maatsen, despite Ruggeri's arrival.
Sky Sports reports that Ruggeri has arrived to replace Lucas Digne, who has re-joined Paris Saint-Germain, rather than necessarily coming in to displace Maatsen.
United's left-back search
United still have signing a left-back on their agenda before this summer window closes and are keeping their options open. Luke Shaw still has no competition, or even a recognised backup, despite Diogo Dalot and Noussair Mazraoui being able to deputise.
Carlos Baleba could even end up playing there in a worst-case scenario. Harry Amass is another option, but he is expected to leave on loan.
Alejandro Balde could depart Barcelona, but the Catalan club want a permanent exit, while United would prefer a loan. Lewis Hall and Myles Lewis-Skelly have been on their radar, but will be staying at their respective clubs this summer.
United's approach
Old Trafford sources insist any signing has to be the right opportunity. Any deals are more likely to be stop-gaps, such as a loan, at this stage, with any incoming left-back purely serving as a backup rather than as competition.
Shaw has started United's last 39 Premier League games. The only matches he missed last season were two cup ties.
Patrice Evra has called for United to sign Lewis Hall. Speaking on his Kick stream, the former United left-back said: "That's what I wanted. [Lewis Hall] is a great player; we're talking about consistency."
In the game against Liverpool, he gave away a penalty, but I don't care. He gives you 90 minutes, guaranteed, that's the kind of left-back Man United need.
He also said: "I love Luke Shaw, but I love Man United even more, that’s why I’m saying they need another left-back," having claimed "his time has gone" after his performance in the 2-0 defeat to Hull City.
