Rohan Sengupta
Manchester United have reportedly turned their attention elsewhere after being frustrated in their pursuit of Alex Sandro. According to The Independent, Juventus will not allow Sandro to leave this winter despite the player’s wish to move to the Premier League.
The Daily Record says United, who faced competition from Chelsea for Sandro’s signature, are believed to be looking at cheaper alternatives, with Celtic’s Kieran Tierney and Fulham’s Ryan Sessegnon under consideration.
The report further suggests that Jose Mourinho is impressed with the progress of both Tierney and Sessegnon. He would, however, prefer recruiting a more experienced left-back if the club’s budget allows. Mourinho remains keen on adding a new left-back and has highlighted it as the position to be addressed in the January transfer window, despite Luke Shaw finally showing signs of promise in recent weeks.
Our gaffer has been impressed by Shaw’s attitude and hard work over the last month and will monitor his progress between now and the end of the season. The 22-year-old has been rejuvenated, starting 6 of the last 9 matches, after making just two substitute appearances in the first four months of the season.
However, the Red Devils remain open to the idea of signing a new left-back and have been left impressed with the 20-year-old Tierney after his starring performances for the Scottish Champions.
Daley Blind, Mateo Darmian and Shaw have all played at left-back, while Ashley Young has performed really well in the makeshift role. But Mourinho is looking for consistency down the left flank and has identified Tierney as a cheaper alternative for Juventus’ Sandro.
United are also reportedly keeping tabs on Fulham’s teenage starlet Sessegnon, who has impressed this season on the left at Craven Cottage this campaign. But the 20-time champions seem to prefer an experienced full-back, giving Tierney the edge over Sessegnon.
Tierney is a more experienced option, having completed two Champions League campaigns with Celtic, also establishing himself as a full international for Scotland. But the 20-year-old’s passion for the Hoops could come as a stumbling block as he will not push to leave Celtic, for who his support is so strong and pure. Celtic are also keen to hold on to the player who recently signed a six-year contract extension until 2023.
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