Manchester United are reportedly monitoring Lewis Hall of Newcastle United and Antonee Robinson from Fulham as potential targets to reinforce their left-back options. The club is also exploring possibilities for a back-up goalkeeper.
With Tyrell Malacia departing this summer and Patrick Dorgu anticipated to continue in a more attacking role, Luke Shaw remains the sole senior left-back at Old Trafford. While Diogo Dalot and Noussair Mazraoui can fill in, the club aims to strengthen the position, particularly with Champions League football ahead.
Left-back targets emerge
Lewis Hall, who Manchester United has been monitoring since March, could be a viable option if the opportunity arises. Hall was not included in Thomas Tuchel’s World Cup squad. His current contract with Newcastle runs until 2029, and Newcastle reportedly paid Chelsea £28m for him two years ago. Reports suggest that Hall’s working relationship with Eddie Howe has encountered issues, leading to speculation that he might be open to a move to Manchester United. However, Newcastle denies any falling out between Hall and Howe, stating that Hall has not submitted a transfer request and maintains good terms with the manager.
Hall reportedly felt that his playing time and positional changes did not support his World Cup aspirations in the latter part of the season. He was substituted at half-time during a 2-1 loss to Bournemouth in April and subsequently started the next two matches against Arsenal and Brighton on the bench. One report indicates a disagreement between Hall and Howe, with some at Newcastle fearing their professional relationship has ended.
Antonee Robinson of Fulham has also emerged as a potential target. The USA international is expected to draw interest this summer, though his future at Craven Cottage may depend on the new head coach. According to one analysis, Robinson’s profile offers different attributes compared to Hall. Robinson, at 28, is only a few years younger than Shaw and has been linked with clubs like Liverpool and Manchester City in the past. He is part of the USMNT squad for the World Cup and has experienced knee injuries over the past couple of seasons.
Statistically, Robinson has shown strengths at both ends of the pitch. He created more big chances, made more tackles and interceptions, was stronger aerially, and was dispossessed less often per 90 minutes compared to Hall in the last season. While Hall won possession back more frequently higher up the pitch, Robinson’s ability to get up and down the pitch and maintain width could be beneficial, especially if Matheus Cunha continues to operate as an inside forward from that flank.
Goalkeeper situation at Old Trafford
In addition to left-back options, Manchester United is also looking for a back-up goalkeeper. Andre Onana has returned from his loan spell at Trabzonspor but is not expected to contend for the number one spot and his future is seen away from Old Trafford. Turkish goalkeeper Altay Bayindir is also likely to depart.
The club is seeking options to support Senne Lammens, who had an impressive debut season in goal. Radek Vitek, a Czech Republic age-group international, is not expected to be among the returning keepers considered for a back-up role. Vitek had a successful loan spell at Bristol City last season, but Manchester United is reportedly looking to sell the 22-year-old.
Young left-back Harry Amass could also play a role if he performs well during pre-season. Amass had a strong first half of the season with Sheffield Wednesday before an injury in January cut it short. He is expected to join Manchester United’s first-team for pre-season, having fully recovered, and all options regarding the 19-year-old’s future are under consideration.
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Source: skysports.com
