Leeds ‘consider’ transfer offer for Man Utd defender Erik ten Hag is willing to sell

Leeds United are reportedly interested in signing Manchester United defender Brandon Williams.

The 22-year-old has struggled for game time at Old Trafford in the last few years and has played just five competitive, senior minutes for the Red Devils since May 2021. ManchesterWorld understand Williams is one of several players Erik ten Hag is willing to sell this summer in order to raise funds for further incomings.

A transfer does seem possible and, as per the Independent, Leeds are ‘considering’ making an approach for the youth-team product, although add ‘much would depend on the player's willingness to drop down a division’.

One complication in Williams’ possible departure is an injury to Tyrell Malacia. The Dutchman is understudy to Luke Shaw at left-back, but hasn’t featured in pre-season due to an unspecified injury he picked up this summer, with United nor Ten Hag yet to reveal the extent of the problem.

During the club’s US tour, Williams fulfilled the role of back-up left-back, and a long-term problem for Malacia could scupper Williams' potential sale. Alvaro Fernandez is an alternative in that position, but based on his team selections in recent friendlies, Ten Hag prefers Williams.

The full-back, who is comfortable on either side, impressed during Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s time as manager, playing 50 times under the Norwegian, and offered real competition for Shaw on the left side of defence during the 2019/20 campaign. Yet Williams’ career has stalled since and he endured a frustrating 2021/22 season on loan in a Norwich City side that finished bottom on 22 points.

A permanent move to Leeds could, therefore, appeal to the defender. Following their relegation from the Premier League last season, Leeds have appointed Daniel Farke as manager and have seen the departure of a number of high-profile players, including Robin Koch, Max Wober, Weston McKennie and Rodrigo.

The Yorkshire side faced United last month in a pre-season friendly - a game Williams featured in - and Leeds begin their 2023/24 campaign on Sunday when they host Cardiff City.