Manchester United are reportedly considering former Chelsea left-back Marcos Alonso as a potential remedy for their defensive issues. The Red Devils have faced difficulties with their left-back position, with Tyrell Malacia and Luke Shaw both struggling with fitness problems last season.
According to The Mirror, United have shortlisted three candidates for the left-back role: Alonso, Crystal Palace’s Tyrick Mitchell, and Feyenoord’s David Hancko. Alonso, who recently became a free agent after leaving Barcelona, brings valuable Premier League experience from his time with Chelsea, including their Premier League-winning season in 2016-17 and their Champions League triumph in 2020-21.
Caught Offside reports that the 33-year-old Spaniard is viewed as a short-term solution and a potential backup for Luke Shaw, offering additional attacking support. “He has experience in the Premier League and can assist the full-back during attacks,” the publication noted.
The interest in Alonso reflects United’s broader strategy to strengthen their defense. The club has already secured striker Joshua Zirkzee and defender Leny Yoro, and is also linked with Bayern Munich’s Matthijs de Ligt. Negotiations are underway with the Dutch defender, indicating United’s intention to overhaul their defensive lineup.
Manager Erik ten Hag is keen to address the left-back position after resorting to right-backs Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Diogo Dalot in that role last season due to injuries. The club has been active in the transfer market, offloading players such as Mason Greenwood, Willy Kambwala, and Donny van de Beek, with potential departures of Casemiro and Scott McTominay also rumored.
