Erik Ten Hag, the new Manchester United manager, is expected to take over the club this summer. The 52-year-old has selected Stuttgart left-back Borna Sosa as one of his top objectives for the summer transfer window. One of the key reasons for the Red Devils’ ignominious fall from grace this season has been their defensive troubles. This season, they have given up 56 goals in 37 league games.
The Red Devils’ dismal 4-0 defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion at the Amex Stadium on Saturday exemplified their lack of defensive coherence and talent. As a result, Ten Hag is expected to make defenders a priority this summer. Manchester United’s left-back position is considered an area where they can improve. Luke Shaw had a strong 2020–21 season, helping his team reach the Europa League final and finish second in the Premier League.
However, a significant drop in form, compounded with a succession of injuries, has caused him to fall from grace. In Manchester United’s last eleven league games, Alex Telles has started ten of them. The Brazilian forward has been brilliant, but he lacks the defensive skills required of a consistent starter.
In this scenario, Stuttgart left-back Borna Sosa has surfaced as a possible transfer target for the Premier League heavyweights. In 27 Bundesliga games, the Croatian has a goal and eight assists. The defender’s contract with the club continues until 2025.
Stuttgart are keen to keep Sosa, but they are aware that if Manchester United make a sufficient bid for him this summer, they may struggle to do so. He might be sold for €25 million, according to reports. Manchester United may have to let go of some full-backs to make room for Sosa’s possible arrival.
Luke Shaw’s contract runs through 2023, with the club having the option to extend it for another year. Prior to his slump in form this season, the 26-year-old was widely regarded as one of the top left-backs in the Premier League.
The Red Devils may decide to keep hold of the former Southampton defender in the belief that Ten Hag can get the best out of him next season.
The contract for Alex Telles is slated to expire in 2024. Since coming to the club from Porto in 2020, the Brazilian has been in and out of the starting lineup. The Red Devils may decide to sell him this summer rather than risk losing him for a low price next season. After spending the 2021-22 season on loan at Norwich City, Brandon Williams is poised to return to Old Trafford this summer.
During his time with the Canaries, the teenager was unable to demonstrate that he was capable of becoming a regular member of Manchester United’s senior side. As a result, he’ll most likely be sold or loaned out this summer.
