Manchester United have been on the search to cover the left-back position for some time now, especially after the injuries of Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia.
And reports have been saying that United believe Chelsea’s Marc Cucurella is the one for the job. According to David Ornstein, the Red Devils have even submitted a proposal to sign the left-back on loan.
Chelsea have demanded a £7million loan fee, which United are looking to compromise over in line with their FFP-impacted budget.
However, it has now been revealed that this might all be a smokescreen for a different signing instead.
According to multiple reports, there are seven other left-backs in consideration.
The likes of Sergio Reguilon, Marcos Alonso, Leonardo Spinazzola, Luke Thomas, Nicolas Tagliafico, Rico Henry, and Ryan Bertrand are in the picture.
The Athletic reports, despite the swirling rumors connecting United with Cucurella, the club has actually been in touch regarding Tagliafico. Erik ten Hag, who brought the 30-year-old to Ajax in 2018, has maintained a good rapport with him during their four-year tenure in Amsterdam.
It’s reported that Lyon is open to parting ways with Tagliafico, who celebrates his 31st birthday this Thursday. They are looking for either a loan fee or a commitment to purchase.
Acquiring Tagliafico could be a strategic move for United, especially as a more economical alternative to Cucurella, particularly with Malacia expected to return from injury sooner than Shaw.
If talks with Chelsea reach an impasse, Tagliafico might emerge as a more viable last-minute addition for the Red Devils.
Additionally, United may already be in advanced discussions, using interest in Cucurella as a tactic to outmaneuver Fulham and other competitors for the player’s signature.
