Manchester United handed fresh transfer boost as club agree replacement deal for Rúben Amorim target

Manchester United have been handed a fresh transfer boost as Bournemouth agree a deal for the replacement of one of Rúben Amorim’s targets.

Manchester United are reportedly eyeing a move for a new left-back in 2025 as Rúben Amorim looks to solve the defensive issues that have troubled his side at Old Trafford.

Amorim has faced challenges in solidifying United’s defence, with set-piece weaknesses proving particularly costly. A defensive overhaul in the next transfer window appears increasingly likely.

The left-back position has been a long-standing concern for United. Luke Shaw, their primary option for years, has struggled with injuries since his devastating leg break in a Champions League match against PSV Eindhoven in 2015.

Tyrell Malacia, Shaw’s understudy, has also had a difficult spell, recently returning from a 17-month absence after undergoing multiple surgeries for a severe knee injury.

In the meantime, Diogo Dalot has been filling in on the left, but Amorim has admitted that the Portuguese international is far better suited to his natural role on the right-hand side.

United handed fresh transfer boost by Bournemouth

One of the left-backs United are looking at potentially bidding for in 2025 is Bournemouth talent Milok Kerkez.

The 20-year-old impressed the English top flight with consistently positive performances across 2024 and was a recent highlight during Bournemouth’s 3-0 win at Old Trafford last month.

With Fabrizio Romano explaining that Kerkez is “one to watch” for United after he switches agencies, United have now been handed a further boost as Bournemouth are set to conclude a deal for his Porentila replacement in the coming days.

According to Romano, the Cherries have agreed on a deal with Argentinian side Lanus for left-back Julio Soler, with many pointing to the fact he may be being recruited to replace Kerkez.

Who else are United targeting at left-back?

Manchester United are said to be closely tracking Benfica left-back Álvaro Fernández, who left Old Trafford for the Portuguese club in January last year. Initially signed on loan, his move was later made permanent.

A potential deal for the 21-year-old could be financially advantageous for United. Although his contract includes a £42 million release clause, Amorim’s side hold a £16 million buy-back clause that remains valid until 2026.

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It has also been claimed that they are keen on Paris St. Germain defender Nuno Mendes, who knows Amorim well after Mendes played under him on 47 occasions before his transfer from Sporting CP to Ligue 1 in 2021.

Additionally, United continue to be linked with Bayern Munich left-back Alphonso Davies. The Canadian star may leave the Bundesliga side for free in the summer if he does not extend his contract, which expires in 2025.

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