Manchester United are reportedly considering an unexpected defender to fill in for Luke Shaw during his injury layoff.
The club has confirmed that Shaw sustained a calf injury during pre-season training and will be sidelined until at least the September international break. Shaw has been absent since February due to a hamstring issue but did make a return to play 120 minutes for England in the Euro 2024 final in July.
The Athletic reports that United had been exploring the acquisition of a new left-sided centre-back and left-back before Shaw’s injury became known.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s initial period as a minority owner has focused largely on younger talents, with 18-year-old Leny Yoro joining for £52 million.
However, United are now eyeing a player in the later stages of his career—former Barcelona left-back Marcos Alonso.
According to The Athletic, discussions have taken place about bringing the Spaniard to Old Trafford following his release from Barcelona this summer.
Alonso was also linked with a move to United last summer, but Erik ten Hag’s side chose to sign Sergio Reguilon on loan from Tottenham instead.
Alonso enjoyed a successful stint at Chelsea, contributing to their 2016/17 Premier League title win and scoring 29 goals in six years at Stamford Bridge. However, concerns about his technical skills and his suitability for a five-defender formation—a system Ten Hag does not use—have been noted.
The link to Alonso has met with mixed reactions from fans. Some are skeptical, with one fan commenting, “He’s 33!” and another noting, “They haven’t learned… maybe the hard way.” Another remarked, “It’s going to be a
