Former Manchester United scout Mick Brown has revealed that the hierarchy at Old Trafford are prepared to let go of two defenders as part of a major restructuring of the team's defensive line.
Despite a relatively stable defensive setup this season, with Lisandro Martinez and Harry Maguire forming a solid central partnership and Diogo Dalot and Luke Shaw occupying the flanks, the futures of the full-backs remain uncertain. The left-back position has been highlighted as a priority in the transfer market, while the right flank could also see changes, with Dalot possibly leaving Old Trafford in the near future.
“Dalot generates mixed feelings: some rave about him, while others believe he falls short of the top club standard,” Brown noted in an interview with Football Insider.
The truth probably lies somewhere in between: he’s a solid player who does his job well, but it’s hard to label him as a world-class right-back. Under Michael Carrick, he's been reliable, starting every week, although the Portuguese occasionally lacks consistency. However, significant changes are ahead for Manchester United's defence. The hierarchy sees four or five players in the backline who could be upgraded with higher-caliber talent. For now, the club isn't actively pushing Dalot out the door, but a sale isn’t off the table. If a suitable offer comes in, they'll definitely consider it.
The second candidate for a potential exit is Leni Yoro, who has played just 22 minutes in this season's Premier League. Brown emphasised that the club is only looking at a loan move for the promising defender:
Evaluating Yoro’s prospects is tricky, as he is an incredibly gifted player. The problem is that he needs weekly match practice to develop, and United can’t afford that kind of risk at this moment. The team is under pressure to win now, leading them to rely on seasoned veterans rather than nurturing young talent. Leni is exceptional on the ball and technically proficient, but questions about his physical condition and mental resilience remain for the coaching staff. The only way to address this is through regular game time. A loan move in January would benefit all parties: Yoro gains experience while United prepares a player for the long term.
Earlier reports suggested that AC Milan are interested in the 20-year-old Frenchman, managed by former United boss Ruben Amorim. Under the Portuguese coach, both Dalot and Yoro were among the most frequently used players in the squad.
