Manchester United haven't had it all their own way in the transfer market so far this summer.
Their pursuit of Elliot Anderson was over before it started thanks to Nottingham Forest's huge price tag, links to Sandro Tonali have come and gone with Tottenham seemingly now winning the race, while Spurs have announced another INEOS target, Mateus Fernandes.
The Red Devils have a lot of work to do after agreeing a deal to sign Atalanta's Ederson, and that work could start at left-back.
Luke Shaw enjoyed an impressive campaign last season, but he is not young yet and that leaves the door open for Lewis Hall, a much needed challenger in the position following the departure of Tyrell Malacia.
Reports have suggested he is unhappy at Newcastle United, who have already lost two key men this summer, and Ben Jacobs has given an update.
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Football FanCast verdict |
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Honesty |
Although Jacobs has yet to make contact between Man United and Newcastle, Hall's displeasure certainly helps to strengthen the possibility of a move. The exit door is well and truly open at St James' Park this summer, and the Red Devils could sneak in. |
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Finance |
In terms of valuation, Hall's currently sits at around £45m as a starting point. Newcastle may increase that if Man United come knocking, as happened with Tonali and Spurs at the beginning of the window. |
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Understanding |
It speaks volumes for the ability of the left-back to almost everyone who was shocked by England's omission from the World Cup this summer. He is one of the best in his position in the Premier League and even kept Lamine Yamal at St James' Park last season. |
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Impact |
Newcastle have already lost two stars and will be desperate to avoid a third relegation. If Hall wants to leave, however, they may have no choice but to give Man United an advantage. |
Hall would be a fantastic addition to Old Trafford, but there is still a lot of work to be done before that happens.
Man Utd set to sign Lewis Hall
According to Jacobs, Man United are now plotting to sign Hall and the player will hold “discussions” with Newcastle chiefs this summer, where he may want to leave.
He is expected to voice his displeasure at the sacking of Dan Burn – who also missed out on a place in the England squad to his club mate – and the Magpies are hoping to see the situation resolved rather than escalated.
“I stand by my knowledge of Lewis Hall. Despite the suggestion that he is not being targeted by Man Utd, he is, according to my information.
“There will be a discussion between Hall and Eddie Howe, and that will work out a new deal, or the player may say he wants an opportunity. If so, Man Utd will be there in my opinion.”
Jacobs also revealed: “Hall was unhappy at Newcastle this season, he was unhappy with the way the season ended, about not getting European football and losing his place to Dan Burn.”
Man Utd must go all out to sign Lewis Hall
In terms of quality and age, there is no better left-back option than Hall in the Premier League. He is only 21 years old, has Champions League experience, and will solve Man United's left-back problem for the next decade.
Newcastle's potential asking price could complicate matters, but history suggests they will be forced to sell if the defender, himself, wants out. Whether Man United are there to make the most of the opportunity remains a big question.
