Manchester United are reportedly monitoring the situation of a right-back with a £22 million release clause who plays in La Liga.
The wing-back position has been a problem area for Manchester United since Ruben Amorim took over in November last year.
The likes of Patrick Chinazaekpere Dorgu and Diogo Dalot are very good full-backs in a back four, but aren’t prolific enough in the final third to be considered quality wing-backs. They have mainly been used in that position because they have the right physical profile for it.
Noussair Mazraoui has also played at wing-back at times, but has predominantly been used as a right centre-back by Amorim. Mazraoui has at times shown flashes of brilliance out wide in 1v1 situations high up the pitch, but most of his best work comes in deeper areas during build-up.
Amad has been converted into a wing-back to add an attacking threat fromthe flanks, but United need more players on both sides of the pitch who can do the same.
United eye move for El Hilali
According to Fichajes, Manchester United have ramped up their search for a new right-wing back and Espanyol’s Omar El Hilali is amongst the standout candidates.
The 22 year-old has become a crucial player for Espanyol over the last few seasons after working his way up the ranks and could be set to take the next step in his career soon.
The report claims that Espanyol would be reluctant to part ways with the right-back, but with a £22 million release clause in his contract, the Spanish club would be forced to accept any offers that meet the demands of the clause.
Fichajes reports that United would have to convince El Hilali in regards to his playing time. With Noussair Mazraoui, Diogo Dalot and Amad all capable of playing at right-wing back, El Hilali would have a lot of competition.
The Moroccan reportedly wants to be an important player at a big club, and playing time could therefore be a stumbling block in a potential move.
Is El Hilali the right profile?
In a 3-4-2-1, you need wing-backs who are elite in the final third as they are responsible for offering the attacking threat from wide areas.
Throughout his career so far, El Hilali has predominantly played as a right-back in a back four and isn’t particularly known for his attacking ability. He is defensively very solid and is decent on the ball, but he is not the profile of wing-back United should be looking for.
If United did sign him, he could potentially be used as a centre-back on the right side of a back three, but with Leny Yoro, Noussair Mazraoui and even Matthijs de Ligt who can play there, United have enough options in that position as well.
El Hilali is a very solid full-back, but isn’t what United need and the funds could be used better elsewhere.
Make sure to follow UtdDistrict on X, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok to never miss out on any of our Manchester United content. Our podcast, What the Devil?, is streamed live every Thursday at 12:30 pm (BST) on the United View YouTube channel.