Manchester United are preparing to strengthen its left-hand side this summer, with the club assessing the market for both left wingers and left-backs.
Manchester United's priority this summer will be the midfield, but United are also keen to strengthen their left-hand side.
It is unlikely United will have the funds to sign both a full-back and a winger, but the club are monitoring the market in order to make a decision on the best way to move forward.
Whether United sign a winger or full-back will heavily depend on Marcus Rashford's future, as well as the club's long-term plan for Patrick Dorgu.
Crysencio Summerville, who West Ham United values at £50 million, is very high on United's shortlist for the left wing position. Iliman Ndaiye and Morgan Rogers are also both said to be on United's radar, and the club have also been linked to Rafael Leao. The Portugal international has publicly spoken about his desire to leave AC Milan this summer.
At left-back, United have identified Lewis Hall as their primary target and have reportedly held talks with the player's entourage, although Newcastle will likely demand a significant fee to part ways with the former Chelsea player.
Left wing more of a priorty than left-back
United reportedly see the left wing position as more of a priority than the left-back position.
According to Ben Jacobs, during an interview with The United Stand, if United could, in theory, only get one of a left winger or left back, they'll prioritise a left wing signing. United ideally would like to sign a left-back too, but whether they can strengthen both positions is dependent on finances.
Jacobs says that if Rashford leaves, then a left winger could be signed. Barcelona's £26 million buy option for Rashford has expired, but the La Liga champions remain keen on keeping Rashford on another loan deal, although United strongly oppose that idea.
Rashford has a £40 million release clause, which is available to all clubs apart from Liverpool and Manchester City. While he could return to United, current reports claim that it is unlikely he will, as things stand.
United should target Barcola
If Rashford does leave, United should make a move for Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola this summer. The Frenchman would likely cost a lot of money, but he has been linked with a move from the European champions this summer.
United need a 1v1 specialist on the left wing who can hold the width and also a player with the speed to make runs in behind. Barcola fits that profile. He is a goal threat, but is also creative.
Summerville is a fine footballer, but West Ham's £50 million is quite steep for a player of his quality. Ndiaye is also a wonderful player, but not what United currently need.
While Barcola would be expensive, he would significantly improve United's squad, and is a very different profile to Matheus Cunha, which would give Carrick tactical flexibility.
At only 23 years of age, Barcola could become a prominent figure at Old Trafford for the next decade and could help Carrick's team push for the title.
