Manchester United target ex-Chelsea star on free transfer to solve problem position

Manchester United are considering a move for former Chelsea defender Marcos Alonso, according to reports.

Erik ten Hag’s side are looking to recruit cover at left-back with Luke Shaw only returning from injury in the final stages of England’s Euro 2024 campaign, while Tyrell Malacia has been left out of United’s pre-season tour squad as he continues to recover from a knee surgery.

United were forced to use several different options at left-back last season, including Victor Lindelof, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Diogo Dalot and Sofyan Amrabat.

The club are now in the market to strengthen that position before the start of the new Premier League campaign but are looking at cheaper signings.

According to The Mirror, Alonso is one of the names on United’s shortlist alongside Feyenoord’s David Hancko and Tyrick Mitchell, who has just a year left on his contract with Crystal Palace.

Alonso represents the cheapest option for United as he is currently available on a free transfer after his contract with Barcelona expired in June.

The 33-year-old spent six seasons at Chelsea and helped the club win six major trophies including the Premier League, the Champions League and the Europa League.

When asked about his future last week, Alonso told EFE: ‘I’m still deciding and I don’t know where I will play next year, although there will be news soon.’

United have also held talks with Bayern Munich over a potential deal for Noussair Mazraoui, who is primarily a right-back but is capable of covering on the opposite flank.

Bayern are open to selling Mazraoui and are holding out for a €25 million [£21m] transfer fee.

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