Man Utd eye former Chelsea player to address defensive concerns

Manchester United are reportedly considering former Chelsea left-back Marcos Alonso as a potential solution to their defensive issues.

The Red Devils have faced challenges in the left-back position, with both Tyrell Malacia and Luke Shaw struggling with fitness problems last season.

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

Alonso, who recently left Barcelona as a free agent, brings Premier League experience, having been part of Chelsea’s Premier League-winning side in 2016-17 and their Champions League triumph in 2020-21.

According to Caught Offside, the 33-year-old Spaniard is viewed as a short-term option and potential backup for Luke Shaw as his attacking prowess could provide additional support for United’s forward line.

“He has experience in the Premier League and he can help the full-back during attacks.

“The 33-year-old would only be a short-term option for the Red Devils considering his age and would mainly act as backup to Luke Shaw.

“It shows United’s intention to strengthen their defence in more than one position this summer. The Red Devils have also been linked with a move for a right-back to replace Wan-Bissaka.

“Negotiations are currently underway with Bayern Munich defender Matthijs de Ligt, which shows United are ready to completely overhaul their defensive line-up,” a post on Thursday via its website said.

This interest in Alonso comes as part of a broader strategy to strengthen United’s defence. The club has already secured the signatures of striker Joshua Zirkzee and defender Leny Yoro, while also being linked with Bayern Munich’s Matthijs de Ligt.

United’s manager, Erik ten Hag, is keen to address the left-back position after the team was forced to deploy right-backs Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Diogo Dalot in that role last season due to injuries.

The Red Devils have been active in the transfer market, offloading players like Mason Greenwood, Willy Kambwala, and Donny van de Beek. There are also rumours surrounding the potential departures of Casemiro and Scott McTominay.