Manchester United’s transfer plans have been impacted, partly due to the progress in development in one young talent.
Since Michael Carrick’s arrival, Manchester United have enjoyed a superb run of form, recording eye-catching victories over both Arsenal and Manchester City.
Now up to fourth in the Premier League, United have reverted to a more familiar 4-2-3-1 system, a tactical tweak that has revitalised Patrick Dorgu’s performances.
The Danish wing-back has been pushed higher up the pitch in recent weeks, effectively operating as a natural winger. The change has paid off, with Dorgu finding the net in back-to-back games, including a sensational strike at the Emirates on Sunday.
Unfortunately, the young United star has since picked up a hamstring injury, sidelining him for an extended period and halting his impressive momentum at a frustrating moment.
United transfer plans impacted as 18yo starlet ‘is ahead of track’
Dorgu’s injury will leave United light on the left side of defence, with no natural backup for Luke Shaw at left-back in the squad.
While the Reds could look for an option in the final days of the transfer market, it seems unlikely for a number of reasons.
One of those appears to be the fact that United have talented left-backs in their ranks and the club do not want to impact their pathway to the first-team.
Harry Amass is currently on loan in the Championship while Diego Leon is playing in the Under-21s at Carrington. The Paraguayan is said to be ‘ahead of track’ in his development.
Speaking to The United Stand, Ben Jacobs said: “If they go down the left [to sign a full-back] and you choose to add a younger one, Diego Leon is doing really well.
“And Manchester United feel his development is actually ahead of track and don’t want to stifle his pathway.”
Amass in better place for first-team role
Leon has not had the easiest time since arriving at United in the summer. He has needed to get used to life in England and the pace of the youth football here.
While he certainly has the potential, many fans would argue that Amass is in a better place to come into the first-team picture next season.
The youngster thrived on loan at Sheffield Wednesday and now has the challenge to succeed in Norwich.
In terms of this season, it also makes little sense to make a signing when the Reds are only playing in one competition, and there are other options if Shaw cannot play.
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