Manchester United have not had it all their own way in the transfer market so far this summer.
Their pursuit of Elliot Anderson was over before it started due to Nottingham Forest’s huge price tag, the links to Sandro Tonali came and went with Tottenham seemingly now winning that race, while Spurs have already announced another one of INEOS’ targets, Mateus Fernandes.
The Red Devils have still got plenty of work to do after agreeing a deal to sign Atalanta’s Ederson, and that work may start at left-back.
Luke Shaw enjoyed an admirable campaign last time out, but he’s not getting any younger and that’s left the door ajar for Lewis Hall, with a rival needed in the position following the departure of Tyrell Malacia.
Reports have suggested that he’s unhappy at Newcastle United, who have already lost two key men this summer, and Ben Jacobs has now provided an update.
Football FanCast’s Verdict
Credibility
Whilst Jacobs is yet to claim any contact between Man United and Newcastle, Hall’s own unhappiness certainly helps 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 swoop in.
Finances
In terms of valuation, Hall’s currently sits at around £45m as a starting point. Newcastle are likely to increase that if Man United come knocking, as was the case for Tonali and Spurs earlier in the window.
Insight
It speaks volumes of the left-back’s ability that almost everyone was shocked by his England omission at this summer’s World Cup. He is one of the best in his position in the Premier League and even kept Lamine Yamal quiet at St James’ Park last season.
Impact
Newcastle have already lost two stars and will be desperate to avoid a third exit. If Hall pushes to leave, however, then they may have no choice but to hand Man United the advantage.
Hall would be an excellent addition at Old Trafford, but there’s still a lot of work to be done before that becomes a possibility.
Man Utd plotting move to sign Lewis Hall
According to Jacobs, Man United are now plotting a move to sign Hall and the player will hold a “conversation” with Newcastle chiefs this summer, where he could demand an exit.
He is expected to speak about his unhappiness over being dropped for Dan Burn – he also missed out on a spot in the England team to his club mate – with the Magpies hoping to see the situation resolved rather than escalated.
“I stand by my information on Lewis Hall. Despite suggestions he is not a Man Utd target, he is, according to my information.
“There will be a conversation between Hall and Eddie Howe, and that’s either gonna settle down a new deal, or the player may say he wants an opportunity. If that’s the case, Man Utd are going to be there in my opinion.”
Jacobs also went on to reveal: “Hall was not unhappy at Newcastle in the season, he was unhappy specifically with how the season ended, in terms of 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 not a better left-back option than Hall in the Premier League. He is still just 21 years old, already has Champions League experience, and would solve Man United’s left-back problem for the next decade.
Newcastle’s eventual asking price could turn things complex, but history suggests that they will be forced into a sale if the defender, himself, pushes for an exit. Whether Man United are there to take full advantage remains the big question.
