Brown urges United to rue Hall miss as Bradbury seals permanent Stoke City switch

Manchester United ended the summer transfer window without addressing their left-back depth, and club legend Wes Brown believes Michael Carrick’s side will feel the consequences — particularly with Luke Shaw’s injury history and a Champions League campaign ahead.

Brown was unequivocal in his assessment of Newcastle’s Lewis Hall, who was linked with a move to Old Trafford before ultimately remaining at St. James’ Park. “You can see Lewis Hall is the real deal,” Brown said. “He’s young and he’s definitely a player you could bring into United who would fit in really well. So, I would have definitely paid the fee for him. He would be a great fit. Luke is still a tremendous player but there’s always that question mark over his injury record.”

Newcastle reportedly valued Hall at £75 million, and United also held interest in Arsenal’s Myles Lewis-Skelly and Barcelona’s Alejandro Balde, but no deal for a left-back materialised. Shaw featured in all 38 of United’s Premier League fixtures last season, yet his fitness record over his career remains a concern. With Carrick opting to deploy Patrick Dorgu in a more advanced role, 17-year-old Harry Amass is currently the only recognised alternative at left-back.

United did strengthen in midfield during the window, bringing in three new additions, though Carlos Baleba will miss Sunday’s Premier League clash with Everton as he continues his recovery from injury.

On the outgoing side, academy striker Louie Bradbury has completed a permanent transfer to Stoke City. The 17-year-old Wales Under-19 international has signed a two-year deal at the Championship club, with the option of a further year’s extension, and will join Stoke’s youth academy setup.