Man Utd’s Hunt for Luke Shaw’s Replacement: Three Left-Backs on the Shortlist

Luke Shaw’s ongoing injury troubles have once again left Manchester United in a difficult position at left-back. Shaw, who picked up an injury during pre-season, forced manager Erik ten Hag to start the campaign without a natural senior left-back. While hopes are high that Shaw will return in time for the crucial fixture against Southampton, it’s evident that Manchester United’s left-back depth is concerning.

Tyrell Malacia, Shaw’s deputy, has also been sidelined for an extended period. Malacia, who missed the entirety of last season, is expected to make his return in October. This leaves Ten Hag with few options, pushing him to rely on versatile players such as right-back Diogo Dalot to fill in on the left. New signing Noussair Mazraoui, naturally a right-back, has also been deployed there in an emergency role.

A Summer Shortfall and January Targets

Despite Manchester United’s evident need for reinforcements at left-back, their summer transfer activity did not address the issue. After bringing in five players, including significant signings in other positions, financial constraints left no room to strengthen the left-back position. Reports suggest that the club had explored the possibility of a loan signing or even a free agent, but these plans were ultimately shelved until January.

According to Givemesport, Manchester United are already preparing for the winter transfer window, compiling a shortlist of three potential left-back targets to address the gap if Shaw’s injury persists【7†source】【8†source】. The list reportedly includes Fulham’s Antonee Robinson, Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez, and Brest’s Bradley Locko. These players are being closely monitored, with United’s January business dependent on Shaw’s fitness levels leading up to the window.

Shaw’s Fitness Concerns

Erik ten Hag has publicly praised Shaw’s ability, but the England international’s injury record is becoming a major concern. Last season alone, Shaw missed over 30 games due to various injuries, making it clear that relying on him for a full campaign may not be feasible. If Shaw continues to struggle with fitness in the first half of the season, Manchester United are expected to act swiftly in the January window.

“Manchester United have pinpointed Fulham star Antonee Robinson, Bournemouth man Milos Kerkez, and Brest talent Bradley Locko as potential Old Trafford recruits after deciding that signing cover for Luke Shaw is a top priority for the January transfer window,” a Givemesport report stated.

The Ideal Candidates for United

Each of the three targets fits Manchester United’s transfer philosophy under their new owners, INEOS, who prioritize young talent with room to develop. Antonee Robinson, a regular for Fulham and the U.S. national team, has impressed with his pace and defensive solidity in the Premier League. Meanwhile, Milos Kerkez, a promising young player for Bournemouth, has also caught the eye of several top clubs across Europe. Bradley Locko, from Ligue 1 club Brest, offers another option with his combination of youthful energy and defensive capability.

According to the report, Manchester United were interested in both Robinson and Kerkez during the summer transfer window. However, increased interest from other Premier League clubs led to Fulham and Bournemouth raising their asking prices, which ultimately derailed any potential moves.

With Shaw’s injury record casting doubt over his availability for a full season, Manchester United are left with little choice but to actively explore these left-back options in January. Tyrell Malacia’s lengthy absence only intensifies the need for a reliable reinforcement in the left-back position.

Conclusion: Preparing for the January Window

Manchester United’s left-back situation remains uncertain, with Shaw’s fitness and Malacia’s recovery being key factors that will influence the club’s transfer strategy. If Shaw is unable to maintain consistent fitness, the January window will likely see Manchester United swoop in for one of their top targets. INEOS’s preference for Premier League experience could give players like Robinson and Kerkez an edge in the race to become United’s next left-back recruit.