The search for defensive cover runs parallel to United’s advanced negotiations with Brighton and Hove Albion for midfielder Carlos Baleba.
Michael Carrick Addresses Left-Back Priorities
United enter the 2026/27 Premier League season with Luke Shaw as the sole senior left-back option in the squad. Shaw played every minute of United’s 38 league matches last campaign, but the club’s return to European competition and a demanding four-tournament schedule have exposed a lack of depth in the position, as detailed by Sports Yahoo coverage.
When asked during a press conference ahead of the opening fixture against Hull City whether left-back is an area slated for reinforcement, Carrick emphasized squad improvement broadly. According to The Mirror, Carrick stated, “I just think we’re looking to strengthen the squad. We’re certainly working towards that, making the most of the situation that we have and trying to improve things and trying to move forward.”
Transfer Targets and Financial Realities
United’s recruitment team has evaluated multiple profiles to support Shaw. The Daily Express reports that Newcastle United defender Lewis Hall emerged as a primary target, though his valuation exceeds £60 million. Barcelona’s Alejandro Balde also surfaced as a target, while club representatives have held discussions regarding Racing Santander left-back Jorge Salinas, who carries a £13.7 million release clause, according to Sports Yahoo.
These defensive pursuits unfold alongside United’s move for Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba. United submitted an opening offer of £60 million ($81.8 million) plus £5 million ($6.8 million) in add-ons for the 22-year-old, according to Sports Yahoo. Baleba would become the club’s third midfield addition of the window following Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos, though an ankle injury means he will not feature immediately upon registration.
Squad Fitness Updates Ahead of Hull City Clash
Ahead of Saturday’s match against newly promoted Hull City, Carrick provided an update on several returning players. Striker Benjamin Sesko missed preseason with a shin injury but returned to full training alongside goalkeeper Karl Darlow and central defender Matthijs de Ligt. While Darlow and Sesko are available for selection, De Ligt requires further conditioning before returning to competitive action.
Midfielder Mason Mount remains doubtful for the weekend fixture after picking up a minor knock that has kept him out of training for approximately ten days, a setback Carrick described as “nothing major.”
Related reading