Manchester United could stick with Diogo Dalot and Alvaro Fernandez for the left-back role despite exploring a loan deal for Chelsea defender Marc Cucurella, The Athletic claim.
The Red Devils recently suffered a huge blow with Luke Shaw picking up a muscular injury. It has been reported that he could be out of action until November.
Meanwhile, Tyrell Malacia has been on the sidelines since the beginning of the summer, having sustained a knee injury on international duty with the Netherlands.
As a result, United don’t have a senior left-back in the squad. They have recently enquired over a loan move for Cucurella from Chelsea, but nothing is advanced.
The Athletic now claim that United could yet choose to stick with Dalot and young graduate Fernandez for the left-back spot rather than making another signing.
United’s decision won’t come as a surprise
Shaw’s injury is a huge setback for United. Dalot played as the makeshift left-back in the recent win over Nottingham Forest, but he needed more defensive support.
The Portuguese has played in the position in the past, but he is most comfortable operating from right-back. Last season, he grew in confidence playing from the role.
United are currently exploring a loan deal for Cucurella, but we won’t be surprised if manager Erik ten Hag makes the decision to stick with Dalot and Fernandez.
Fernandez has yet to make his competitive debut for the club, but he had a positive loan stint at Preston North End last term where he impressed with his decision-making.
The Spaniard was good with his offensive and defensive actions, and could finally get the chance to make his mark with the double injury blow in the left-back department.
Cucurella had a poor debut season at Chelsea after shining at Brighton & Hove Albion. He is still a good left-back option, but tends to fare better from the wing-back role.
Furthermore, he has been working in a completely different tactical set-up at Chelsea, and adjusting to a new system could be difficult. He may struggle to adapt quickly.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
