Manchester United hopes to be able to strengthen the squad this summer, where a new coach could potentially also come to the club, as there are still doubts about Erik ten Hag’s future.
Spanish publication Fichajes reports that Manchester United is showing unexpected interest in acquiring AC Milan’s left-back, Theo Hernandez, in the upcoming summer transfer window.
Hernandez has been delivering stellar performances for AC Milan this season, contributing 5 goals and 10 assists across 38 matches in all competitions. While he mainly plays as a left-back, his adaptability has been showcased by filling in as a central defender for Milan when necessary.
Fichajes notes that Erik ten Hag, the manager of Manchester United, is scouting for a reliable left-back for the forthcoming season due to the injury concerns plaguing Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia. Hernandez is on the radar as a potential key addition for the Premier League side.
The report suggests that Manchester United is ready to spend upwards of £51 million to persuade AC Milan to release Hernandez, who ranks as one of their key players. Amidst speculation about his future and stalled contract negotiations, Hernandez has also been linked with Paris Saint-Germain in recent times.
Since his transfer from Real Madrid in 2019, Hernandez has become a standout at AC Milan. This season alone, he’s had a hand in 15 goals and has impressed with his distribution skills, duel-winning capability, and defensive recoveries. His attacking prowess from the left-back position is noteworthy.
Hernandez could perfectly fit into ten Hag’s tactical plans. Although Shaw has been a consistent performer for United, his frequent injuries raise reliability concerns. Malacia, brought in to compete for the left-back position, has been sidelined this season with a knee issue.
Manchester United is in need of a dependable option for the left side of their defense, and Hernandez emerges as a potential solution. Additionally, Hernandez’s flexibility means he could also serve as a left central defender, providing rest for Lisandro Martinez, who has had his own share of injuries since joining from Ajax.
