'/%3e%3cdefs%3e%3clinearGradient%20id='prefix__paint0_linear_4737_37157'%20x1='3.018'%20y1='23.6'%20x2='44.925'%20y2='24.977'%20gradientUnits='userSpaceOnUse'%3e%3cstop%20stop-color='%231CB7FF'/%3e%3cstop%20offset='.502'%20stop-color='%232FF58B'/%3e%3c/linearGradient%3e%3c/defs%3e%3c/svg%3e)
No more midfield: United want one more signing this summer to cover two key positions
Aug 26 2026 18:47 · By onefootball.com · 2 Reads
2
Manchester United have reportedly identified a must-have quality for a late left-back signing.
Left-back chase
On Tuesday, United announced the arrival of Carlos Baleba from Brighton & Hove Albion, all but confirming the end of the club’s summer rebuild.
With less than a week left until the close of the summer window, United are believed to be eyeing a left-back. While Luke Shaw did well to be fit and start all 38 Premier League games last season, his injury record strongly suggests that he cannot be relied upon to replicate this feat.
Combine this with the uncertainty surrounding Harry Amass’ future and it’s easy to see why United are keen on a left-back.
United have identified Lewis Hall as a prime target, though Newcastle have firmly ruled out a sale.
Another option, Barcelona’s Alejandro Balde, is also understood to be on their radar, but the Spaniard is keen to remain at the Camp Nou and compete for his spot under Hansi Flick.
Joaquin Seys of Club Brugge and Jorge Salinas of Racing Santander are other names on United’s list, though any deal for either player would face significant complications. Club Brugge have no desire to part ways with Seys while Atletico Madrid are said to be pushing hard for Salinas.
Rumours of interest in Myles Lewis-Skelly persist, though Mikel Arteta has stated his reliance on the teenager. Additionally, Arsenal would almost certainly require a substantial fee to entertain a sale to a Premier League rival.
United need to act fast if they are to succeed in securing the services of a left-back and according to The Telegraph, there is a key quality that whoever they bring in must possess.
Key condition
The news outlet claims, “Manchester United are still looking for a left-back before the deadline.”
“Interestingly, it is understood they would ideally like a full-back who could also cover at centre-back, which would give Michael Carrick options across his back line.”
United’s defensive vulnerabilities were laid bare in the defeat to Hull on the opening weekend, making it no surprise that they are seeking additional cover at centre-back.
Michael Carrick and his players are next in action on Sunday when they host Ipswich Town.
