Lewis Hall: Man United eye raid for Newcastle star as price tag emerges
· Yahoo Sports
Manchester United are interested in striking a deal for Newcastle United full-back Lewis Hall, according to a highly trusted source.
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Reinforcements Out Wide
The Red Devils are prioritising a revamp in midfield this summer, with up to three new signings expected to arrive at Old Trafford. However, the left-hand side of the pitch is another area of focus for INEOS, particularly when compared to how well-stocked the right is.
Initially, it was understood that a winger was considered more urgent, given Matheus Cunha and Patrick Dorgu are more comfortable in different roles than being stationed high and wide on the left. However, the improved form of both under Michael Carrick has seen a new left-back climb in importance, with Dorgu expected to remain deployed further forward.
This leaves Luke Shaw – United’s longest-serving player – as the only senior option in the squad. The 30-year-old Englishman started every Premier League match this season, despite his torrid injury record.
There is recognition amongst the hierarchy that this will be impossible for Shaw to repeat next year with the increased workload from the return of European football, meaning a competitor – and potential successor – is now being targeted.
Hall is a leading target
Despite a difficult start to life at St James’ Park, Hall has emerged as one of the finest full-backs in the Premier League in a Newcastle shirt.
Signed from Chelsea for £35 million in 2023, initially on loan, the 21-year-old is an outstanding technician. He combines this with improving defensive instincts and a relentless engine, which enables him to get up and down the pitch with ease.
Laurie Whitwell reveals the Magpies are “not looking to sell” the Cobham graduate, though they are “expected to significantly reshape their squad this summer” after a disappointing season.
The Athletic reporter, considered the gold standard for United transfer news, confirms Hall is “among the options” being targeted by United, with recruitment director Christopher Vivell having crossed paths with him at Stamford Bridge.
Hall has “not always been in favour” under Eddie Howe, with the youngster understood to be dismayed at missing out on a place in England’s World Cup squad after being dropped by the 48-year-old coach towards the end of the campaign.
Any deal for the defender would be worth “north of £50m”, meaning a pursuit would likely be dependent on United’s ability to generate funds through sales. Myles Lewis-Skelly (Arsenal) and Nathaniel Brown (Eintracht Frankfurt) are two other options on the list.
Final Thoughts
Compatibility is paramount in football, with complementary skillsets allowing two players to form potent partnerships where they may otherwise struggle without. As a left-winger, Cunha’s inclination – and where he operates best – is to cut inside. At points this season, it has left United too narrow as Shaw lacks the physicality to provide a constant overlap on the outside.
Hall’s energy and quality in the final third would make him the perfect partner to the Brazil international, bringing balance and fluidity to United’s attack, despite nominally being classified as a defender. Another important consideration is Lisandro Martinez and Matthijs de Ligt’s ongoing injury issues, with the Argentine’s absence in particular creating a ripple effect throughout the team without his distribution from deep.
A new centre-back is believed to be on the agenda for United, though not an urgent priority. At numerous points in his career, Shaw has deputised in central defence. Hall’s signing would allow the former Southampton star to provide cover here as well.
In short, Hall would be an outstanding addition at left-back who provides a major boost elsewhere on the pitch. It’s little wonder sporting director Jason Wilcox is said to be a huge fan of the rising star, and is actively pushing for him to shine at the Theatre of Dreams next season.
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