Manchester United scouts watch “standout” star put on 8/10 performance, Rúben Amorim needs him in January

Manchester United had a scout in attendance to watch one transfer target pull off a “standout” display as he was given an 8/10 for his performance.

Manchester United are in the market for a new left-back in the coming transfer windows after multiple seasons of various injuries have left Rúben Amorim’s squad weak in the position.

Defensive frailties, particularly at set pieces, have been a major concern under the 39-year-old, and addressing them has become a priority ahead of the next transfer window.

The left-back position has been a long-standing problem for United. Luke Shaw, the club’s first-choice for years, has suffered persistent injury setbacks, including a devastating leg break during a Champions League match against PSV Eindhoven in 2015.

His backup, Tyrell Malacia, has also endured a challenging period, only recently returning from a 17-month absence following multiple knee surgeries.

Diogo Dalot has been filling in at left-back during their absences, but Amorim has acknowledged that Dalot is more comfortable and effective in his natural position on the right side of the defence.

United scouts watch Fernandez put in 8/10 performance

With United needing a new left-back in 2025, the club have been closely linked with Benfica left-back Alvaro Fernandez, who departed Old Trafford 12 months ago after a lack of game time under Erik ten Hag.

The 21-year-old defender has since come on leaps and bounds and is now a key part of Benfica’s first-team set-up, and put in a “standout” display as they rolled Braga over in the Portuguese Cup semi-final on Wednesday to face Sporting on Saturday evening.

According to O’Jogo via Sport Witness, United had a scout in attendance to watch the fixture, with Fernandez the stand out following his goal, while former United winger Angel Di Maria also netted twice.

Fernandez and Di Maria were awarded 8/10 ratings for their respective performances, the highest on the pitch on the night.

Due to United’s negotiations with Benfica last year, they have a buy-back clause of around £16 million in Fernandez’s contract, while his release clause for all other clubs is £41 million.

Amorim needs Fernandez in January

Once United secure a new left wing-back for Amorim, the dynamic of the team will change drastically.

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Dalot put up a fantastic performance against Liverpool, having the beating of Trent Alexander-Arnold on most occasions, but for the most part he has looked uncomfortable in the position and often slowed play down.

United are starting to see Leny Yoro at right centre-back in Amorim’s back three system, who has a trademark cross-field pass that finds the left-back, and once there’s a player on the pitch who can properly take advantage of this, the whole team dynamic will become more fluid.

United are also missing a left-footed player who can put in crosses from the left-hand side, with fast players such as Amad Diallo and Rasmus Højlund keen to capitalise.

Considering that he’s available for just £16 million for United, it’s a transfer that United must look to make in January.

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