The winds of change are blowing through the halls of Old Trafford as newly-appointed Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim sets his sights on bolstering the squad in the upcoming transfer window. According to close sources, the Portuguese tactician has identified the left wing-back position as a key area for reinforcement, with three high-profile targets on his radar.
Amorim’s Shortlist: Mendes, Davies, and Kerkez
Topping Amorim’s wishlist is none other than Nuno Mendes, the rising star currently plying his trade at Paris Saint-Germain. The 21-year-old Portuguese international has been turning heads with his blistering pace and defensive prowess, making him a perfect fit for Amorim’s preferred 3-4-3 formation.
However, prising Mendes away from the French capital may prove to be a tall order, with PSG reportedly reluctant to part ways with their prized asset. This has prompted Amorim to cast his net wider, with Bayern Munich’s Alphonso Davies emerging as a potential alternative.
“Davies’ speed and ability to create chances going forward would add a new dimension to United’s attack,” revealed an insider close to the club.
The Canadian international has been a revelation since breaking into Bayern’s first team, but with his contract set to expire in 2025, the Bavarian giants may be open to a sale if the price is right.
The Kerkez Wildcard
Perhaps the most intriguing name on Amorim’s shortlist is that of Milos Kerkez, the 19-year-old Hungarian sensation currently making waves at AFC Bournemouth. Despite his tender age, Kerkez has already established himself as a key player for the Cherries, with his marauding runs down the left flank and pinpoint crosses earning him a host of admirers.
While Kerkez may lack the star power of Mendes or Davies, his potential is undeniable, and Amorim is said to be a big fan of the youngster’s work ethic and desire to improve. With Bournemouth likely to demand a considerably lower fee than PSG or Bayern, Kerkez could prove to be a shrewd piece of business for the Red Devils.
Addressing Defensive Frailties
The renewed focus on the left wing-back position comes as no surprise, with United’s current options in that area, Tyrell Malacia and Luke Shaw, both struggling with injury concerns. Shaw, in particular, has been earmarked for a potential role change, with Amorim keen to utilize the England international’s experience and composure as a left-sided centre-back in his preferred system.
“Luke has all the attributes to excel as a left-sided centre-back,” a source close to Amorim revealed. “His ability on the ball and positional awareness would be key in building attacks from the back.”
As the January transfer window inches ever closer, the rumor mill is sure to go into overdrive, with United’s every move scrutinized by fans and pundits alike. One thing is for certain, though: with Amorim at the helm and a war chest at his disposal, the Red Devils are poised to make a splash in the market as they look to mount a serious challenge on all fronts in the second half of the season.
Will it be Mendes, Davies, or Kerkez who ultimately makes the switch to the Theatre of Dreams? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: the Old Trafford faithful are in for a rollercoaster ride as Amorim looks to stamp his mark on this storied club.
