Man Utd can set off £13m cut price signing in precedence place as switch focus shifts
Manchester United can make a bargain £13million signing if they trigger the release clause of a teenage sensation to resolve a problem area for Michael Carrick
Manchester United have failed to sign Michael Carrick a new left-back(Image: PAUL ELLIS, AFP via Getty Images)
Manchester United could address their most pressing issue with a cut-price transfer in the final hours of the window.
It has been a reasonably fruitful period for the Red Devils, who have successfully revamped their engine room through the acquisitions of Andrey Santos, Youri Tielemans and Carlos Baleba. However, they are yet to land a much-needed new left-back before the crucial deadline.
Luke Shaw represents their sole senior choice in that role, meaning any injury to the England star would create a major headache for Michael Carrick. United have been pursuing a left-back addition throughout the window, yet find themselves nearing the cut-off point having failed to make any meaningful headway. However, the Red Devils could make a late move for 19-year-old Racing Santander left-back Jorge Salinas.
Jorge Salinas reportedly has a release clause of just £13m(Image: Getty)
JOIN US ON FB! Get all the best sports news and much more on our Facebook page
The circumstances are further complicated by United’s willingness to sanction Harry Amass’s departure, with a temporary switch to the Championship considered the likeliest outcome after a permanent transfer to Burnley fell through.
Barcelona full-back Alejandro Balde had been on the Red Devils’ radar, according to The Athletic, though he is anticipated to stay put at the Nou Camp for the time being.
It’s suggested that while his long-term prospects at the club remain in doubt, a deadline-day departure is probably beyond reach. As an alternative, United could explore a more affordable option in Racing Santander defender Salinas, who continues to be linked with a Premier League move.
Jorge Salinas is attracting interest from Barcelona and Atletico Madrid(Image: Juan Manuel Serrano Arce, Getty Images)
He has a release clause of just £13million, making him a potentially low-risk yet high-reward acquisition if he can hit the ground running at Old Trafford.
United aren’t the only side reportedly interested in securing his services, however. The likes of Newcastle, Barcelona, Aston Villa and Atletico Madrid have all been linked with a move for the 19-year-old in recent weeks.
While he is believed to be on United’s radar, there’s no certainty that a left-back will be brought in at Old Trafford before the transfer window shuts.
Backup plans are said to have been put in place in the event they fail to sign Salinas or another player for the position – either Diogo Dalot or Noussair Mazraoui could be asked to switch from the right flank to the left.
United might also opt to retain Amass to bolster their depth, while another possibility would see Baleba repurposed as an emergency full-back.
