Man Utd eye former Chelsea player to address defensive concerns

• Published On: 25 July 2024 at 18:37

Manchester United are apparently looking into former Chelsea left-back Marcos Alonso as a possible answer to their defensive problems.

Tyrell Malacia and Luke Shaw both struggled with fitness issues last season, posing concerns for the Red Devils at left back.

According to The Mirror, United has a three-man shortlist for the left-back position, which comprises Alonso, Crystal Palace's Tyrick Mitchell, and Feyenoord's David Hancko.

Alonso, who just left Barcelona as a free agent, provides Premier League experience, having played for Chelsea in 2016-17 and their Champions League victory in 2020-21.

According to Caught Offside, the 33-year-old Spaniard is regarded as a short-term alternative and potential backup for Luke Shaw, since his attacking abilities might provide additional help to United's forward line.

"He has Premier League experience and can support the full-back during attacks.

"Given his age, the 33-year-old would be a short-term option for the Red Devils, serving mostly as Luke Shaw's backup.


"It demonstrates United's aim to bolster their defence in multiple positions this summer. The Red Devils have also been linked with signing a right-back to replace Wan-Bissaka.

"Negotiations are currently underway with Bayern Munich defender Matthijs de Ligt, demonstrating United's readiness to completely overhaul their defensive line-up," said a post on the club's website on Thursday.

This interest in Alonso is part of a larger attempt to improve United's defensive. The team has already signed attacker Joshua Zirkzee and defender Leny Yoro, and has been connected with Matthijs de Ligt of Bayern Munich.

Erik ten Hag, United's manager, is eager to address the left-back position after the club was forced to use right-backs Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Diogo Dalot last season due to injury.

The Red Devils have been active in the transfer market, selling players including Mason Greenwood, Willy Kambwala, and Donny van de Beek. There are also suggestions that Casemiro and Scott McTominay may go.