Manchester United identify two left-back options after missing out on Lewis Hall

Alejandro Balde and David Raum are potential left-back alternatives to Lewis Hall for Manchester United this summer.

A left-sided full-back to provide competition for Luke Shaw has been prioritised at Old Trafford ahead of the new season.

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Shaw played in all of their 38 Premier League matches last season and is set to remain as first choice ahead of Patrick Dorgu, who Michael Carrick has mostly positioned on the wing since returning in January.

However, amid Shaw’s fitness issues in recent campaigns and United back in the Champions League, a new left-back is likely to be signed.

Hall has sat at the top of their wishlist and director of football Jason Wilcox is understood to be a big admirer of the Newcastle man.

The 21-year-old former Chelsea defender could remain at St. James’ Park, though, given that the Magpies have lost numerous key players.

Anthony Gordon, Sandro Tonali and captain Bruno Guimaraes have all left Newcastle.

talkSPORT have also reported that Fulham star Antonee Robinson is another player United could turn to if they fail to sign Hall.

But another two names have arisen for the left-back role, which Alex Crook says will become the focus after they sign Carlos Baleba from Brighton in a potential deal worth less than £75million.

Who could United target at left-back?

“I know they can’t rely on Luke Shaw to play every minute of every game, particularly when you factor in Champions League football, something they haven’t had in recent seasons,” talkSPORT’s chief football correspondent said.

“One name emerging from Spain overnight is the Barcelona full-back Alejandro Balde, so one to keep an eye on between now and September 1 when the window closes.

“I think, ideally, Lewis Hall at Newcastle would be United’s dream target, but Newcastle made it pretty clear they’re not willing to sell him this summer. In fact, they’ve started talks over a new contract.

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“We’ve mentioned the German international Raum, he’s at RB Leipzig, he has a £34million release clause.

“So, United are getting active when it comes to recruiting a new left-back for Michael Carrick.”

Myles Lewis-Skelly was also revealed to be a potential option for the role at United.

talkSPORT first reported their interest in March as the 19-year-old, who can play at left-back and in midfield, struggled for minutes at Arsenal.

Lewis-Skelly was then offered to clubs, including United and their Premier League rivals Chelsea.

However, Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has insisted that he will remain in north London beyond the summer.