Manchester United have reportedly submitted a formal proposal to Barcelona for left-back Marcos Alonso as they continue their search for emergency cover in that position. This move comes after Luke Shaw was ruled out until November with a muscular injury, leaving United in need of immediate reinforcements. Backup left-back Tyrell Malacia is also sidelined for a similar period, further exacerbating the situation.
United are currently exploring various options before the transfer window closes, with talks believed to be progressing for Chelsea’s Marc Cucurella. However, Alonso is also being considered, along with Brentford’s Rico Henry and Tottenham’s Sergio Reguilon. While Reguilon appears to be closer to a move to Fulham, a move for Alonso seems to be advancing the quickest.
According to Catalan newspaper Sport, United have formalized their interest in Alonso by submitting an offer to Barcelona. The Spanish champions are willing to offload the 32-year-old and are working on a deal to sign Manchester City’s Joao Cancelo as a replacement. There are conflicting reports about the nature of United’s offer for Alonso, with Sport suggesting it could be a straight loan for the 2023-24 season.
However, Alonso’s contract expires next summer, and Marca suggests that United could offer him a two-year deal. Under this scenario, he would initially join on loan before the move becomes a free transfer in a year’s time. Despite initial reluctance to return to the Premier League, Alonso is said to be considering the proposal, especially if he does not feature in new Barcelona manager Xavi’s plans.
Atletico Madrid is also interested in signing Alonso, which could complicate matters for United. Barcelona is keen to sign Atletico’s Joao Felix and may use Alonso as part of a potential swap deal. Alonso’s preference would be to remain in Spain, giving Atletico the upper hand if they formalize their interest with a concrete proposal.
While United continues to progress on multiple fronts, talks for Cucurella, Reguilon, and other targets are ongoing. The club aims to line up several deals before making a final decision based on manager Erik ten Hag’s input.
In the meantime, United has been approached by Bayern Munich for a potential midfielder swap deal. The club is also reportedly interested in Brentford’s Rico Henry as they search for additional left-back options.
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In conclusion, Manchester United is actively pursuing a new left-back and has submitted a formal proposal to Barcelona for Marcos Alonso. The club is exploring various options and aims to secure a deal before the transfer window closes. Alonso’s potential move to United may be advancing quickly, but Atletico Madrid’s interest and his preference to remain in Spain could complicate matters. United continues to negotiate with other targets and will make a decision based on the manager’s input.