- Manchester United are looking to bring in reinforcements at left wing-back
- The position has proved to be particularly problematic for United in recent times
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Manchester United are keeping an eye on Paris St Germain left wing-back Nuno Mendes.
The Old Trafford club want to strengthen their options in that department with Tyrell Malacia still to convince after a lengthy spell on the sidelines while Luke Shaw, now 29, has struggled with injuries of late and may yet be utilised as a left sided centre back in new manager Ruben Amorim’s preferred 3-4-3 system.
Shaw figured in that position during Amorim’s initial training sessions last week but is not considered fit enough to start against Ipswich on Sunday.
PSG wing-back Mendes played under Amorim at Sporting Lisbon, where he won a league title, prior to his £31.5million transfer to the French champions in 2022.
His attacking style quickly established himself as fans favourite in Paris being named young player of the year the following season and has gone on to win three consecutive league titles.
United have also discussed Bayern Munich’s Canada international Alphonso Davies, a target for Real Madrid, as they consider potential options and Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez.
Manchester United are keeping an eye on PSG left wing-back Nuno Mendes (second left)
United boss Ruben Amorim is targeting reinforcements in what has been a problem position
Mendes has impressed since joining PSG after playing under Amorim at Sporting Lisbon
United have also discussed Bayern Munich ‘s Canada international Alphonso Davies
The latter has also been linked with Liverpool but he is not an active target for the Anfield club as it stands.
The immediate concern for United is what they will be able to afford come January due to financial fair play and whether striker and centre back remain their first priorities.
United, who have been hindered once again by injuries to centre backs this campaign, have made no secret of wanting Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite, particularly as interest remains from rival clubs, but at £70m he will be difficult to buy in the winter window unless they have considerable joy selling fringe players in a tight market.
A striker is also desired unless Amorim can get a new tune out of Marcus Rashford, Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee.
