Manchester United want to sign a new left-back this summer to provide competition for Luke Shaw.
Patrick Dorgu was expected to compete with Shaw, but the Denmark international is now considered a left-winger.
United have been linked with Newcastle United’s Lewis Hall, who is considered one of the best left-backs in the Premier League.
Man United have now been handed a boost in their pursuit for the English defender as he is open to leaving Newcastle this summer, according to talkSPORT.
The Red Devils’ director of football Jason Wilcox is a ‘big admirer’ of Hall.
Described as ‘outstanding‘ by manager Eddie Howe, the 21-year-old is under contract until 2029, but the Magpies face a battle to retain his services beyond this summer.
Hall would be an upgrade on Shaw
The Newcastle full-back has leapfrogged Shaw in the Three Lions’ squad. He is expected to be named in their squad for this summer’s World Cup, while Shaw is likely to be left out.
That said, Hall has outperformed Shaw both offensively and defensively in the Premier League this season.
They both have the same goal involvements (two) in the competition, but Hall ranks higher in other attacking metrics.
Hall ranks in the 63rd percentile for expected assists (xA), higher than Shaw (eighth).
The former Chelsea man also edges the United defender in progressive passes (85th percentile vs 66th), progressive carries (67th vs 51st), and crosses completed (35th vs 19th).
Defensively, Hall ranks higher in possession won (84th percentile vs 46th) and defensive duel won (75th vs 54th). However, Shaw is superior in aerial duels (82nd vs 55th).
He also has a decent injury history, missing just nine games across all competitions this term.
United should step up their pursuit of the English full-back. He could be Shaw’s replacement and their long-term first-choice left-back.
Stats from datamb.com & transfermarkt.com
