Controversial Man United target sparked debate between Gary Neville and Ian Wright

A new Manchester United target was at the centre of a debate between Gary Neville and Ian Wright at Euro 2024.

Several United players starred during the summer competition, with Luke Shaw and Kobbie Mainoo reaching the final with England before falling to defeat against Spain.

Interestingly, it was the semi-final clash between the Three Lions and the Netherlands that sparked debate among many football fans.

England were rewarded a penalty shortly after going 1-0 down after Denzel Dumfries, who has recently been linked with an Old Trafford move, appeared to catch Harry Kane in the box. However, the contact was only noticed afterwards on VAR.

Former United captain Gary Neville was on ITV punditry duty and labelled it as a “disgraceful decision.”

“There’s no way that was a penalty,” Neville added. “He just goes in naturally to block the shot. It’s not a penalty for me. You have to take your luck, though.”

Yet, former Arsenal striker Ian Wright disagreed with the United legend. He believed that Dumfries’ challenge was “reckless”.

He explained: “When you look at the way penalties are given now and the way the game is when we go to VAR, that was reckless.”

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“Reckless?” a bemused Neville responded. “That is not reckless. Oh my God…” Wright responded, “But Gary, he’s given it. That’s why we’ve got VAR. If that was anywhere else on the pitch, you’d get a foul for it!”

ITV commentator Lee Dixon was in agreement with Neville’s stance on the incident, saying: “I would be astonished if this was given. I’m pleased, don’t get me wrong.

“But from a defender’s point of view, you have to challenge for the ball. They both go in for the ball. It’s a split second. I don’t think that’s a penalty, but I don’t care. I really don’t care.”

Is Dumfries the right move for United?

Just like that penalty incident, United targeting Dumfries is filled with controversy. Many fans are unsure whether the Dutch international would be an upgrade on Aaron Wan-Bissaka.

It is also well-known that the Inter fullback is more comfortable in a wing-back role and is not overall strong defensively.

Matching that with Leny Yoro coming into the side and needing a level of stability to adapt to the club and Premier League, it doesn’t seem like the best match should Diogo Dalot face any injuries.

In terms of finances, it would also seem unlikely that Dumfries would be on lower wages than Wan-Bissaka. The transfer fees would be similar, too.

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