Man Utd in ‘contact’ as transfer target emerges amid ‘pushing’ claim

Manchester United are reportedly considering a move for a free agent following the news defender Luke Shaw could be out of action for up to two months.

The England international has suffered a muscle injury and is expected to be on the sidelines for the foreseeable future as Red Devils manager Erik ten Hag faces up to life without a senior left-back. Tyrell Malacia is still working his way back towards full fitness and Brandon Williams has already left the club to join Ipswich Town on a season-long loan.

United’s only other natural left-back is youngster Alvaro Fernandez, who is yet to make a senior appearance at Old Trafford after spending last season on loan at Championship club Preston North End.

The Daily Express have now reported United have made contact with former England defender Ryan Bertrand as they look to resolve the issue on the left-hand side of their defence. The 34-year-old, who was part of the Chelsea squad that won the Champions League and Europa League just over a decade ago, has been without a club since he left Leicester City in the aftermath of their relegation from the Premier League last season.

Talks with Bertrand’s representatives are said to be ‘at an early stage’ after the former Southampton defender was placed on a list of candidates to replace Shaw on a short-term basis.

Ligue 1 giants ‘pushing’ for United defender

Marseille are reportedly planning to make a move for United centre-back Eric Bailly as his time at Old Trafford comes to a close.

Sky Sports News have reported the 29-year-old is ‘not part of Erik ten Hag’s long-term plans and have suggested the Ligue 1 club are ‘expected to formalise their interest in the coming days’. Bailly spent last season on loan at Marseille and a permanent move would see him reunited with former manager Marcelino after the duo worked together at La Liga club Villarreal during the 2015/16 season.