Manchester United's Director of Football, Jason Wilcox, is exploring a move for Newcastle United's Lewis Hall amid United's full-back hunt.
Manchester United's full-back options have split opinion to say the least over the last few seasons. Diogo Dalot and Luke Shaw have always been first-choice when fit, but both players create mixed opinions throughout the fanbase.
However, it seems both fans and the higher-ups at the club think it is time to progress the position, especially on the left-hand side. Although Shaw has been a loyal servant to the club, his time at Old Trafford has been plagued by multiple injuries.
Whilst Patrick Dorgu possesses bundles of potential, the 21-year-old still doesn't have the Premier League experience to become a starting defender week-in, week-out. This is why it is essential that recruitment for this area of the pitch allows Michael Carrick to bring in a player who blends experience and potential.
An individual who has already made 83 appearances for a huge Premier League side ticks both these boxes. He is only 21 and has not only caught the eye of Manchester United's director of football, but also plenty of England's top clubs.
United reportedly interested in Lewis Hall
According to Flashscore, the higher-ups at Old Trafford have been hugely impressed by both the attacking and defensive sides of Hall's game. Specifically, Jason Wilcox, who is said to be an admirer of the England international, will be keeping close tabs on the full-back if he features at the upcoming World Cup.
Under Carrick, the goal is to create a side that is balanced offensively as well as defensively, with Hall being the perfect defender to support this philosophy. He sums up what it means to be a modern full-back, which the biggest clubs in Europe are always looking for.
Hall's ability to progress play is one of the major reasons for United's interest, as it is a skill that is not amongst their current options, with Shaw lacking mobility and Dorgu not being the most composed player on the ball.
With questions regarding Shaw's future and Tyrell Malacia leaving as a free agent, a replacement will have to be brought in who can provide the Red Devils with versatility, whilst also being reliable throughout the next campaign, where United will play more games due to qualifying for the Champions League.
Hall's versatility could be his most important quality
Lewis Hall is a Cobham academy graduate, and learnt to play in a multitude of positions whilst climbing up the ranks at Chelsea. He can do a job at left-back, wing-back and even move into a holding midfielder role if required.
Bringing in a player who almost acts as three for the price of one will be hugely appealing to Michael Carrick, especially someone like Hall, who has bags of potential to grow and could turn himself into a stalwart at any club.
However, it goes without saying that Newcastle won't be desperate to sell one of their key players, and are unlikely to sell to another Premier League club unless a significant offer is made.
It has been reported by TEAMtalk that a deal worth no less than £55 million would be required to steal Hall from the Magpies. However, it is a fee that could rise dependant on interest throughout the upcoming transfer window, as it is highly likely United aren't they only side interested in the 21-year-old.



