Wage demands of superstar perfect for Amorim’s system will “be an obstacle”, no longer a “priority target” – Athletic

Manchester United have been playing without a recognised left-back for the best part of two years now and Ruben Amorim is desperate for reinforcements in the department.

Luke Shaw has managed only three appearances this season, missing 25 games thus far while last term, he missed more than 30 matches due to persistent niggles.

Tyrell Malacia missed the whole of the previous campaign and has really struggled since his return this season, not lasting more than 45 minutes in any of his appearances.

Diogo Dalot has been forced to play at left wingback even though the head coach has claimed that his compatriot is more suited to his favoured right flank.

Left wingback needed

There have been reports of INEOS signing someone in January but that someone is certainly not going to be Bayern Munich’s Alphonso Davies.

The Canadian is set to become a free agent in the summer and there have been contrasting reports about his contract talks with the Bavarian giants.

Real Madrid and United were among his leading suitors with Liverpool also keeping a close eye ahead of a potential summer raid.

But The Athletic have now claimed that the soon-to-be free agent’s wage demands could scupper a move to Old Trafford.
That is why he is not being seen as a priority target at present.

Davies off the menu

“United’s need for wing-backs and Alphonso Davies’ expiring contract has led to the Bayern Munich left-back being linked with Old Trafford in recent months.

“But even if joining as a free agent in the summer, his level of salary would likely be an obstacle. The 24-year-old is not considered a priority target at present.”

United have a couple of more economical options in mind, which include the likes of Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez and Wolves’ Rayan Ait-Nouri.

Among overseas players, the club is also keeping tabs on Girona’s Miguel Gutierrez and Lecce’s Patrick Dorgu while the Old Trafford outfit posses a €20 million buy-back option for Benfica’s Alvaro Fernandez Carreras.

Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social