Manchester United are seriously considering cancelling plans to purchase a third central midfielder this summer in order to redirect their budget towards strengthening the defensive flank.
Shifting priorities and Carrick's stance
Following the acquisition of Andre Santos from Chelsea for £50 million and the activation of Youri Tielemans' release clause from Aston Villa for £35 million, the Mancunians have been in talks for Manu Kone from Roma, Carlos Baleba from Brighton, and Aurélien Tchouaméni from Real Madrid. However, due to financial constraints, the club's strategy has changed.
Mason Mount's role: Head coach Michael Carrick has been playing Mount in a deeper position in central midfield during pre-season matches. The coaching staff believe that, if injury-free, Mount can become a reliable fourth option in midfield alongside Santos, Tielemans, and Kobbie Mainoo.
Change of target: The club's main resources are set to be directed towards signing 21-year-old left-back Lewis Hall from Newcastle United, who is valued at £60 million.
Lewis Hall transfer situation
The Manchester United board, led by sporting director Jason Wilcox, is preparing an opening bid for the Englishman.
Despite Newcastle's reluctance to let the player go following Eddie Howe's departure, Hall himself is open to a club change, and options for a return to Chelsea are not being considered, making Manchester United the favourites in the race for the defender.
