Manchester United were in the market for a new left-back this summer, but the Reds eventually ended the transfer window without a new player in that position.

United's top target to strengthen the left-back position was Lewis Hall from Newcastle United, but the Magpies made it clear that the former Chelsea player was not for sale. By the time United reportedly made an approach, Newcastle had already sold Anthony Gordon, Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimarães, and were therefore determined not to sell another key player.

Alejandro Balde was another player United considered. Jorge Mendes, Balde's agent, held talks with United over a deal for the Spanish full-back. However, United only wanted to sign Balde on a temporary basis, while Barcelona were not open to the prospect of a loan deal. The player himself wanted to stay at Barcelona.

Jorge Salinas of Racing Santander was another player that United were interested in. His release clause was worth £13.7 million, but United decided not to pursue a deal for the Spaniard, who also attracted interest from Atlético Madrid.

United also enquired about signing Rayan Aït-Nouri on loan from Manchester City on deadline day, but United's local rivals made it clear they would only entertain talks over a permanent deal.

Another player United could have signed was RB Leipzig's David Raum, but the Old Trafford hierarchy decided not to make a move for the German international for a couple of reasons.

According to ESPN,  could have signed David Raum from RB Leipzig, having been told all summer he was available. 

However, signing a 28-year-old for around £30 million on a four- or five-year contract was viewed as potentially disruptive to the next stage of transfer business.  

According to various reports, United decided not to sign a left-back on a permanent transfer this summer to ensure they can go all out for Lewis Hall next summer.

There are several players United were interested in this summer that they did not sign because of the costs involved in those deals. United have put real emphasis on finding value in the market. They definitely did that in midfield. The signing of Youri Tielemans for £35 million is a prime example of that. That being said, opportunities like that in the market don't come around often.

Newcastle will almost certainly demand around £70 million for Hall next summer, potentially even more. Given the fact that United have decided to wait another year for Hall, they have to be prepared to go as high as that fee for the Englishman.

Being cautious in the market and looking for value is good, but if you want to sign the very best players in this market and challenge for major honours, you have to be prepared to spend a large sum of money on the best players. Hall is worth spending big on.