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Manchester United left-back Luke Shaw has moved into the final year of his contract and is still to agree a new deal. The England international was a vital figure for the Red Devils last season, starting all 38 Premier League matches for the first time in his career.

Shaw delivered strong performances as a left-sided centre-back under former head coach Ruben Amorim before smoothly returning to his natural left-back position under Michael Carrick.

He also started at left-back in United’s 2-0 loss to Hull City at the MKM Stadium last weekend. The 31-year-old did not make much of an impact, and with his contract situation unresolved, the Red Devils may need to put succession plans in place quickly.

Shaw joined Old Trafford in 2014 as one of the brightest young prospects in English football. However, his time at United has not unfolded in the way many expected.

Even so, he is now the longest-serving player in the club’s current squad and also the first player to appear in every Premier League season since the 2014/15 campaign. Still, that has not prevented the Red Devils from looking for a long-term replacement.

Recent reports have identified Lewis Hall as United’s top target for the role, but indications suggest the player will not leave Newcastle United this summer. At the same time, the Red Devils continue to be linked with Barcelona full-back Alejandro Balde as they seek to strengthen the left-back area.

The English giants are also monitoring other options, including David Raum. A new left-back cannot be ruled out entirely this summer, with United reportedly making the position a priority and Club Brugge’s Joaquin Seys also featuring on their shortlist.

As things stand, Shaw’s place at the Theatre of Dreams could come under pressure in the days ahead. He may now be on the far side of 30, but he remains highly respected by fellow professionals.

Speaking on Stick to Football, Aston Villa midfielder John McGinn named Shaw and Arsenal’s Riccardo Calafiori as the toughest opponents he has faced. He said: “Do you know who really surprised me? Calafiori. Calafiori and Luke Shaw would be my two hardest opponents.”

“Luke Shaw because I needed to completely adapt my game with Luke Shaw. Because we’re of similar build. He’s one I had to completely try and adapt [to]. Calafiori was much stronger than I thought, I was really impressed with him.”

Shaw has made 326 appearances for United during his career, scoring five goals and providing 30 assists. He has come up against McGinn 11 times for club and country, recording seven wins and only two defeats.

Although Shaw’s experience will be important for United this season, his poor injury record continues to be a concern. With the Red Devils preparing to compete on four fronts this season, INEOS may decide it would be sensible to invest in a new left-back.