Manchester United have been handed updates on two left-back targets ahead of the January transfer window. The position was one targeted by United in the summer window.
While the priority was to strengthen the midfield, the final days and weeks of the window saw them try to add to their left-back options. They eventually decided to go with what they have for the first half of the season.
Left-back situation at Old Trafford
With Michael Carrick seemingly preferring to play Patrick Dorgu further forward, it leaves Luke Shaw as the only natural senior left-back in the squad. While he played every Premier League game last season, he has had previous spells out due to injury.
A recent injury to Shaw has led to Dorgu playing further back as he provided cover. However, United could look to provide genuine competition to the 31-year-old when the window reopens in January.
David Raum update
They could potentially reignite interest in a couple of their targets from the summer. RB Leipzig's David Raum was one of the names said to be on the list.
He's been linked with United for the last few years, with reports that he was offered to the club in the summer. He has less than a year remaining on his current contract, meaning he could be available for a cut-price.
However, it seems that United are expected to face competition for the 28-year-old. Gazzetta dello Sport reports that Juventus are keen to sign him on a free transfer next summer when his contract expires.
It's added that the Italian side face competition from teams in England, but have 'positioned themselves favourably' due to a positive relationship with the player's agent.
Alejandro Balde boost
Another player who United were linked with in the summer was Barcelona's Alejandro Balde. It seems that they have been handed a boost over a potential January move with Fichajes reporting that Balde is at the top of the list of players Barca want to sell.
The report adds that before any new signings can be made at the Nou Camp, the club must first let players go, with a one in one out policy. The 22-year-old has played just 12 minutes of football so far this season and has been an unused substitute for the remainder of games.
Given Barcelona's need to sell, it's a situation that United could potentially take advantage of to try and get a transfer completed at a reduced rate.
Lewis Hall ruled out
One transfer target who United won't be reigniting their interest in is Newcastle United's Lewis Hall. The England international was the left-back United were the most heavily linked to in the summer.
But in a blow, Hall has recently signed a new long-term deal at St James' Park. United will therefore now have to move on to other options, unless they want to pay a huge fee that Newcastle will demand.
