Manchester United are stepping up their search for a new left-back after their preferred target, Lewis Hall, became increasingly difficult to prise away from Newcastle.
The club want additional competition for Luke Shaw, whose fitness issues have made the position a concern heading into the new season. United had identified Hall as their first choice, but Newcastle are reluctant to sell after already losing several important players.
That has forced United to look elsewhere, with Barcelona’s Alejandro Balde and RB Leipzig’s David Raum now among the alternatives being considered.
Balde would represent a particularly ambitious option. The Barcelona defender has established himself as one of the most exciting young full-backs in Europe, combining speed with attacking ability and the confidence to carry the ball forward.
Raum, meanwhile, offers more experience and could potentially be a more straightforward deal. The German international reportedly has a release clause of around £34 million, giving United a clear route to completing the transfer if they decide to pursue him.
Fulham’s Antonee Robinson is another name on United’s radar, while Arsenal’s Myles Lewis-Skelly had previously attracted interest. However, Arsenal are keen to keep the versatile youngster.
United’s priority is now to find a player capable of providing genuine competition rather than simply acting as backup. With the club returning to the Champions League, manager Michael Carrick needs greater depth across the squad.
The left-back position therefore remains one of the areas United are expected to address before the transfer window closes.
And with the season now underway, the pressure is increasing for the club to make a decision quickly.
