Manchester United could be in for a new left-back, as Erik ten Hag is now considering a move for Argentine defender Nicolas Tagliafico.
What’s the word?
That’s according to Fabrizio Romano, who spoke on The United Stand about a number of potential targets that Ajax could offer Manchester United.
He claimed: “I would keep an eye on Nicolas Tagliafico until the end of the market. Not just Man United, but for many clubs [he] could be an option because he is out of contract next summer. I see him leaving this summer so it could be an interesting opportunity.”
Supporters will be buzzing
Luke Shaw’s Manchester United career has been tumultuous at best, as the full-back has struggled for fitness since signing for £27m back in 2014.
Having only featured 20 times in the league this season, the England international has not found the net in any competition and only has three assists to his name.
It is therefore unsurprising to see new manager Ten Hag head back to his old club Ajax to fix this solution and provide further competition for Alex Telles.
Tagliafico had fallen out of favour last season, however had already proven his consistency, as he boasted an average SofaScore rating of 7.17 or higher in each of his three seasons prior to 2021/22.
Shaw conversely has only ranked above this once in his entire career, back during the 2020/21 season.
Also, whilst only slightly better, the Argentina international’s four goal contributions this season combined with these ratings makes for much better viewing than his potential competition.
It is this consistency that led to former Premier League striker Kevin Campbell dubbing the 29-year-old “top-quality”.
“He’s got lots of experience in the Champions League and on the international stage so I think it would be a smart signing”, he continued.
Meanwhile, Shaw has come under fire over the years from various managers whom he has worked under. Jose Mourinho had a very public dispute with him, whilst Ralf Rangnick had claimed he was “not good enough” whilst speaking to the United hierarchy.
Former West Ham forward Frank McAvennie claimed that both he and Harry Maguire would be a “disgrace” had they performed for England following their embarrassing season with Red Devils.
The two both played roles in what is statistically the worst Manchester United team of all time.
Whilst Shaw is not the worst of the problems at Old Trafford, perhaps gutting this old squad that has a history of failure would not be such a bad idea for Ten Hag.
Shipping off those with resale value could also prove an intelligent move, as the new manager will have his eyes set on those with experience at the top level, who he knows he can trust.
As such, Romano’s latest update regarding United’s interest in a move for Tagliafico is sure to be one that will leave the Old Trafford faithful buzzing, as the 29-year-old would undoubtedly represent a huge upgrade on Ten Hag’s current options at left-back.
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