Carlos Baleba’s arrival in Manchester has fortified a summer conquest that has completely revamped Michael Carrick’s midfield.
Alongside Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans, United have built on their attacking restructuring last summer, further enhancing a squad with Premier League objectives in mind.
Much of the foundations of this strategy were assembled with a view to challenging for domestic honours and maintaining Champions League qualification. But areas of need were agreed many months ago.
Unsurprisingly, the defence has now moved to the forefront of thinking for this Ineos sporting department, predominantly in the wide areas.
Lewis Hall is considered a priority at Old Trafford; that much is common knowledge. As previously reported by the Theatre of Red, our sources are confident that he would welcome a move to M16.
The Newcastle star ticks all of the required boxes for this ambitious rebuild. He has age, ability, potential and 85 Premier League appearances to his name.
Nonetheless, Hall also has three years remaining on his contract in the North East, and the Magpies are eager to retain their precocious talent for as long as is possible.
Although Jason Wilcox and his team would love to capture their man this summer, there is an acceptance that any deal would require a substantial offer, and compliance with internal financial rules will play a role.
Having spent £65 million on Baleba, £48 million on Santos and £35 million on Tielemans, United have achieved an impressive trio for less than £150 million.
Still, as good as dealings have become over the past 12 months, profiting from outgoing players requires attention to bolster the club’s transfer kitty.
Marcus Rashford’s return has scuppered some plans, given his sizeable salary and the disappearance of an agreed £26m fee. As did Manuel Ugarte’s heartbreaking injury, with the Uruguayan all but certain to depart the club.
Conversations continue regarding Joshua Zirkzee’s future, as Juventus pursue a late push to acquire the Dutchman’s services. But would that leave Carrick short in attacking options?
The club recouped some funds when Rasmus Hojlund’s Napoli move was made permanent with a £38m fee, leading to widespread conversation about net spend and a lack of ambition. But the desire not to replicate predecessors’ spending errors remains.
Therein lies the current predicament regarding best practices in achieving a deal for Hall.
It’s fair to say that Luke Shaw delivered a sublime showing last season, starting all 38 Premier League outings. Regardless, he’s not getting any younger, and an unsavoury injury record looms large.
Alongside the expectation of a congested schedule with the addition of domestic and continental cup challenges, many feel a further left-sided option is mandatory, and Hall is viewed as the ideal option.
Today, we know that several conversations have taken place between representatives of both clubs, and Newcastle are adamant that only a world-record fee for a full-back would force their hand.
Given United’s desire to maintain a new-look image in the market, Omar Berrada and co are refusing to wilt against expectations, and are hell-bent on eradicating the ‘United tax’ of old.
But the sporting team remain confident of securing their target, even if it means repeating the practices employed in signing Baleba-they are willing to bide their time until next summer if need be.
Still, this approach could prove troublesome for Carrick this season, and a decision to recruit an alternative name is offering ample debate.
If the club signs a young talent like Alejandro Balde, do they jeopardise his progression when returning for Hall? Hence, officials have requested a loan move, but Barcelona desire a permanent sale in the region of £40m.
Experienced names like Antonee Robinson (29) or David Raum (28) present a short-term option to utilise for a reasonable fee. However, is either player content with playing second fiddle at this stage of their career?
It’s easy to see why many supporters would entrust Harry Amass with rotation duties throughout the campaign. The 19-year-old is far from the finished article, but he is talented and eager, and also true to academy traditions.
The teenager is one of several being touted for a departure for as little as £6m, though. Although fans are irate with reports, it’s crucial to remember that data is playing a significant role at Carrington.
With a solitary week remaining before the window shuts, we’re told that ample consideration is being given to all of the above, with nothing ruled out at the time of writing.
Contrary to an incorrect social narrative, this group possesses significant ambition and is eager to continue developing the squad. But they will do so on their terms for the long-term benefit of the football club.
Let us know your thoughts in the comments or across our social channels–photo by News Images via depositphotos.com.
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