Top News

Manchester United are stepping up their efforts to sign a new left-back, with Newcastle United’s Lewis Hall currently identified as their top choice.

However, Newcastle remain adamant that they do not plan to part ways with Hall, and any potential deal could cost around £70 million to convince the Magpies to sell the English defender.

Due to this, Manchester United’s technical director Jason Wilcox and his team have reportedly initiated talks concerning two other prominent left-back options.

According to TEAMtalk, the club has been working extensively behind the scenes to identify alternative targets, with two names now standing out — Barcelona’s Alejandro Balde and Eintracht Frankfurt’s Nathaniel Brown.

Both players are said to perfectly fit the profile Wilcox is searching for. Additionally, Christopher Vivell, the club’s head of recruitment, has played a key role in these discussions and is believed to have strongly recommended both players to the management.

Manchester United had reportedly made initial enquiries about Balde earlier this year after learning he might be available during the summer transfer window.

That opportunity is described as “still very much alive,” with Barcelona planning a considerable squad rebuild. Balde is understood to be among the players the Catalan club would consider selling for the right price.

The 22-year-old Spanish full-back is highly regarded for his exceptional speed and dribbling skills but has faced recurring injury setbacks over the past two years.

Meanwhile, Nathaniel Brown has established himself as Germany’s first-choice left-back following an impressive season in the Bundesliga.

Bayern Munich are reportedly leading the chase for the 22-year-old German international, having already held talks with both the player and his current club, Eintracht Frankfurt.

Nevertheless, a transfer is far from guaranteed, as Frankfurt’s £55 million valuation is considered excessive by Bayern’s hierarchy.

The report further notes that Manchester United have moved swiftly to express their interest, with sources indicating that contact has already been made between the club and Brown’s representatives.

Feature image: Judit Cartiel via Getty Images