Manchester United head to Everton on Sunday aiming for consecutive victories under Michael Carrick. However, supporters will need to be patient before seeing new recruit Carlos Baleba in action, as he remains unavailable for selection.
Carrick's squad changes and transfer concerns
Carrick has overseen significant squad changes this season, with the bulk of major signings concentrated in the midfield department. This has sparked concerns amongst supporters about whether the team is adequately prepared, particularly with their Champions League campaign on the horizon.
The left-back position was widely regarded as an area requiring reinforcement, yet the club opted against strengthening it before Tuesday's transfer deadline.
Newcastle boss speaks out on Hall
Matthias Jaissle has sent a subtle hands-off message to United regarding Lewis Hall's future. The Newcastle left-back was reportedly United's primary target before the club ultimately failed to secure a new addition in that area.
Magpies boss Jaissle has responded by heaping praise upon his player ahead of any potential future approaches from United. The German manager has indicated his desire to see the £75million-rated Hall continuing to shine at St James' Park for years to come.
"He's a huge, huge potential player," Jaissle stated at a press conference this week. "He's delivering already on a high level but we all know that there's much more to come.
"We're really excited that he is a part of that team and hopefully also in the long term."
United's inability to recruit a new left-back this summer indicates the club will make a fresh push to bolster that position next year. Nevertheless, Newcastle will again seek to fend off any approaches for their asset.
Hall has made an encouraging start to the season, despite conceding a late penalty in the 2-2 stalemate against Liverpool on the opening weekend. He responded with an impressive display in Newcastle's 2-0 triumph at Tottenham seven days later and is expected to feature prominently under Jaissle this term.
Redknapp praises former United target
Jamie Redknapp has suggested United overlooked an opportunity by failing to secure Mamadou Sangare this summer. The Mali international was among the names mentioned in connection with a switch to Old Trafford as Carrick undertook a midfield rebuild.
Sangare, 24, eventually joined Brentford following a club-record £39million move from Lens. He has adapted effortlessly to the Premier League, prompting Redknapp to believe his value will soon reach nine figures.
"The best business I like is Sangare at Brentford," Redknapp remarked. "I think he's going to be a wonderful signing for them. He'll probably be worth £120million in a few years. He'll go to Brentford, establish himself as a top player."
The Sky Sports pundit elaborated on his belief that Sangare appears to be the standout Premier League acquisition of the summer window.
At £40m, he could have represented better value compared to alternatives such as £50m Andrey Santos or £70m Baleba. In fairness, Santos has justified his price tag with his performances thus far, while Baleba is yet to make his mark in the middle of the park.
Nevertheless, Brentford continue to showcase their shrewd recruitment strategy, having seemingly secured another emerging talent with star potential.
