United fail to meet Amorim’s “initial transfer demand” as high-flying PL side decide to hold on to talisman – report

Not many would have given Manchester United a chance when they went down to 10 men in the 61st minute against Arsenal in their FA Cup third-round tie at the Emirates on Sunday.

Diogo Dalot struggled on the left against the Gunners and was moved to his preferred right flank position at the start of the second 45 minutes.

But the ineffective Portuguese proceeded to see his second yellow soon after and the hosts subsequently equalised. And at moment, it seemed like he has cost his team the game.

But the bravery shown by the backline and Altay Bayindir’s heroics meant the visitors took the game to penalties and won 5-3 to setup a fourth-round date with former interim boss Ruud van Nistelrooy.

Dalot was shocking vs Arsenal

While Amorim does not want to sell Dalot just yet, it is clear that United need more quality down the left and that is why a host of left-backs have been linked with a move to Old Trafford this January.

One of them is Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez whose chances of moving mid-season had increased when reports emerged that the Cherries were closing in on a move for Julio Soler from Lanus.

But Givemesport have revealed that owing to his importance to Andoni Iraola’s high-flying team, there is no chance the Cherries decide to sell mid-season.

This will deal a major blow to Amorim’s plans and the head coach could be forced to not strengthen now in the hope of landing his desired target next summer.

Due to lack of outgoings, INEOS have failed to raise enough capital to try and fund a move for Paris Saint-Germain’s Nuno Mendes as well this winter.

United not getting Kerkez

“Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim could be forced into a significant U-turn over his winter transfer plans as Bournemouth are adamant that leading left-back target Milos Kerkez will not complete a move to Old Trafford ahead of the February 3 deadline.

“Manchester United cannot enter the market for Kerkez or an alternative option until they secure additional funds by overseeing big-name exits, GMS sources have learned, resulting in there being an increasing possibility that Amorim will be left disappointed by failing to meet his initial transfer demands.

“According to GMS sources, the Portuguese tactician is toying with the idea of waiting until the summer to sign a left-back if he cannot land a top target.”

With Tyrell Malacia being linked with an exit and given Luke Shaw’s injury history, it is clear that Amorim needs help on the left wing if United are to climb up the Premier League table.

Big-game temperament aside, consistency will now be key but the without a left wingback, Amorim’s system does not quite work and once again, he is being forced to compromise.

Feature image Michael Steele via Getty Images

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