Manchester United’s need for a left wingback is pretty well-known at this point with Diogo Dalot struggling on the left even though head coach Ruben Amorim had already clarified that his compatriot is more suited to the right flank.
The Portuguese has been forced to play there due to the absence of Luke Shaw while Tyrell Malacia has struggled for form since his return from long-term injury with the club looking to move him on this January.
After Amorim’s scathing comments about the current lot being the worst in the club’s history, INEOS finally got cracking and the Red Devils were linked with a stunning move for Patrick Dorgu of Lecce.
And just when it seemed that the Danish star would be heading to Old Trafford, Napoli entered the race and their terms of engagement have handed them the advantage.
Dorgu deal in danger
They are willing to loan him back to Lecce for the rest of the season after acquiring his signature now, while United need him immediately.
The Serie A side had already declared their intention to not sell their talisman in January and Napoli’s offer will suit them as they look to avoid relegation in this campaign.
Which is why United have been forced to look elsewhere, with ESPN noting the club have drawn up a list of potential alternatives and it includes Crystal Palace’s Tyrick Mitchell.
“Manchester United are exploring the possibility of signing a left-back in January if they can make room in their budget, sources have told ESPN.
Tyrick Mitchell has emerged as an alternative
“Enquiries have also been made about Wolves’ Rayan Aït-Nouri and Crystal Palace left-back Tyrick Mitchell.”
The “magnificent” Englishman has extensive experience of playing as a left wingback for the Eagles and most importantly, his deal with Palace ends in 2025, potentially allowing United the chance to grab him on a cut-price deal this January or agree a Bosman summer deal.
The 25-year-old, who has risen through the ranks at Selhurst Park, has three assists this season and has been a regular under Oliver Glasner, starting all 22 of Palace’s Premier League matches.
Being a homegrown star, Mitchell has naturally attracted a lot of interest from within the English top-flight and United have a fight on their hands if they are to win the race for the England international’s signature.
Feature image Tom Dulat via Getty Images
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Ayantan Chowdhury
Ayantan has worked for 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites but his heart was always set on writing about his favourite club. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25
