Man United target Hall and Robinson as left-back search shapes summer rebuild

Manchester United are targeting Newcastle United left-back Lewis Hall and Fulham’s Antonee Robinson as they look to address a thin defensive left side ahead of their return to the Champions League next season.

With Patrick Dorgu expected to be deployed in a more advanced role, Luke Shaw currently stands as United’s only senior left-back heading into the new campaign. Diogo Dalot and Noussair Mazraoui can provide cover, but the club view reinforcement as essential. Hall, 21, is admired by key figures within United’s hierarchy and is described as someone they could look to sign if the opportunity arises. The England youth international was left out of Thomas Tuchel’s World Cup squad and is regarded as a long-term prospect, particularly given that Shaw’s contract expires next year.

Reports earlier this month suggested Hall had submitted a transfer request to Newcastle following a falling-out with manager Eddie Howe, but that account has been disputed — sources close to the club indicate the pair ended the season on good terms.

Robinson, 28, is also on United’s radar and is expected to attract wider interest during the World Cup, where he will represent host nation the United States. An impending managerial change at Fulham could further unsettle the defender’s six-year stay at Craven Cottage.

Beyond the left-back position, United are seeking a backup goalkeeper. Andre Onana has returned from his loan spell at Trabzonspor but is not expected to be given the chance to challenge for the No. 1 shirt in pre-season. Altay Bayindir and returning loanee Radek Vitek, who spent the season at Bristol City, are both expected to leave.

In midfield, United have already secured Atalanta’s Ederson but continue to explore further options. Mateus Fernandes of West Ham has been discussed, with contact made with the player’s representatives, though the Hammers are believed to be demanding around £85 million — more than double the £42 million they paid for him a year ago. Southampton hold a 15 per cent sell-on clause in any future deal.

Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson is also high on United’s list, but the club are understood to have been quoted a fee in excess of £120 million, a figure that reflects Forest’s determination to retain one of their most valuable assets.