‘You need to’ - Man Utd have answered Ralf Rangnick concern after transfer decision

Manchester United are finally up and running in the summer transfer window.

Erik ten Hag confirmed the first signing of his Old Trafford reign on Tuesday, with United completing a deal to sign Tyrell Malacia.

The left-back joins after an impressive season with Feyenoord, who grabbed attention by reaching the final of the Europa Conference League.

Malacia played a key role, and the 22-year-old will now continue his development at Old Trafford, with United addressing an area of concern.

United have Luke Shaw, Alex Telles and Brandon Williams as their current left-back options, but there has been a feeling for some time that more quality is needed at the position.

And that’s something former interim boss Ralf Rangnick highlighted all the way back in 2020, before he arrived to take over from Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

He said: “They could do with a left-back. I know they have Luke Shaw but I’m not so sure if he’s still on the same kind of level you need to be for a club like Manchester United.”

Since then, Shaw has improved drastically, showing his quality during Euro 2020 and playing a part in United’s Europa League run during the subsequent season.

But the England international missed 18 Premier League games last season, pointing to the need for more depth and competition at left-back, something United and Ten Hag have now addressed.

Speaking after completing his move, the Dutchman said: “It’s an incredible feeling to have joined Manchester United. This is a new chapter for me, a new league with new team-mates and a tremendous manager [Erik ten Hag] leading us.

“I know from playing against his teams in the Eredivisie, the qualities that he has and what he demands of his players.

“Whilst I know that I am still young and will continue to develop, I can promise the United fans that I will leave everything on the pitch every time I pull on the red shirt. I’ll always be thankful to Feyenoord for all they have given to me and my family.

“None of this would be possible if it wasn’t for them. Now I’m ready to focus on the future with United, and help my new club achieve success.”