Ruben Amorim has wasted no time in shaping his vision for Manchester United, with the Portuguese manager reportedly making a left-back signing his top priority for 2025.
Renowned transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has shed light on Amorim’s demands, emphasizing that the club is actively scouting for a “proper” left-sided defender to address a glaring gap in their lineup.
Amorim, who helmed his first game against Ipswich Town last Sunday, saw the tactical challenges firsthand. United’s 1-1 draw against the Premier League strugglers highlighted defensive vulnerabilities. Marcus Rashford’s early goal offered a glimmer of hope, but Ipswich’s equalizer from Omari Hutchinson exposed cracks in United’s armor. A standout performance from Andre Onana saved the Red Devils from leaving Portman Road empty-handed.
The deployment of Diogo Dalot as a makeshift left wing-back underscored the issue. With Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia sidelined, Amorim had to rely on an out-of-position Dalot to adapt to his preferred 3-4-3 system. Romano has confirmed that Amorim sees this situation as unsustainable and has made his stance clear to the United hierarchy.
Left-Back: Priority No. 1
“Ruben Amorim is very happy with Diogo Dalot’s professionalism and versatility,” Romano stated on his YouTube channel. “However, he is adamant that Manchester United need a player who can naturally occupy the left-back role. Dalot can cover temporarily, but that’s not his primary position.”
Amorim’s request for reinforcements isn’t bound to the January transfer window; it’s a long-term objective that could be addressed in the summer of 2025. “This is not just about urgency,” Romano continued. “It’s about finding the right player who fits Amorim’s tactical blueprint while meeting the club’s financial and strategic considerations.”
INEOS’s Dream Target
While Romano has hinted at multiple options, BILD journalist Christian Falk has reported that Alphonso Davies tops INEOS’s wishlist. The Canadian international is reportedly considering his future at Bayern Munich, with his contract set to expire in 2025. Should Davies opt against renewing, he will be free to negotiate with foreign clubs in January.
Manchester United are said to be monitoring Davies’ situation closely, hoping to outmaneuver Real Madrid, who have long been linked with the dynamic left-back. “United’s interest in Davies is genuine,” Romano confirmed. “They’ve already reached out to his representatives, aiming to position themselves as serious contenders for his signature.”
Alternatives on the Radar
Beyond Davies, other potential targets include Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez, Wolves’ Rayan Ait-Nouri, and former United prospect Alvaro Fernandez Carreras. Kerkez, an emerging star in the Premier League, has drawn attention from multiple top clubs, including Liverpool. Ait-Nouri, meanwhile, is enjoying a standout season with Wolves and has reportedly climbed high on United’s wishlist.
Alvaro Fernandez presents an intriguing option. The Spanish left-back, now at Benfica, departed Old Trafford last summer for €5 million. However, United retained a €20 million buy-back clause, which can only be activated during the summer window. His rapid development in the Primeira Liga has not gone unnoticed, making him a viable candidate for a 2025 return.
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Amorim’s Tactical Vision
Amorim’s insistence on signing a left-back stems from his commitment to implementing the same 3-4-3 system that brought him success at Sporting CP. For this approach to work effectively, he needs specialized players who can provide width and defensive stability. While Dalot has admirably filled in, the Portuguese manager is clear that a long-term solution is essential.
United’s recent struggles have highlighted the importance of squad depth, particularly in defense. Shaw’s repeated injury issues have left the club vulnerable, and Malacia’s fitness concerns only compound the problem.
Shaw’s Stop-Start United Career
Luke Shaw’s career at Manchester United has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows. Since joining in 2014, the England international has endured numerous injury setbacks, limiting his availability and impacting the team’s consistency at left-back. While Shaw has shown flashes of brilliance, including his stellar 2020/21 campaign, his inability to stay fit remains a significant concern for Amorim.
Amorim’s decision to prioritize a left-back is as much about planning for the future as it is about addressing present deficiencies. A reliable and dynamic option in this position could provide the stability United have long lacked.
January Window Uncertainty
While Amorim has conveyed his preferences, the timing of any potential move remains uncertain. The January transfer window could offer opportunities, but only if the right player becomes available at the right price. Otherwise, United may wait until the summer to secure a marquee signing who aligns with Amorim’s long-term vision.
Conclusion
Ruben Amorim’s early tenure at Manchester United has already highlighted the need for strategic reinforcements. With a left-back signing emerging as a top priority, the Red Devils are actively exploring their options. Whether it’s Alphonso Davies, Milos Kerkez, Rayan Ait-Nouri, or Alvaro Fernandez, Amorim and the United hierarchy are leaving no stone unturned.
As the 2025 transfer windows approach, the pressure will be on to deliver a signing that not only meets Amorim’s demands but also strengthens United’s push for success in both domestic and European competitions.