Manchester United 'ask to sign Barcelona player' after Luke Shaw injury blow

Manchester United have asked Barcelona over the prospect of signing defender Marcos Alonso due to their injury crisis at left-back.

United have made three signings so far this summer in Erik ten Hag's second campaign in charge at Old Trafford.

Midfielder Mason Mount joined from Chelsea in a £55m deal, while Andre Onana has arrived from Inter Milan as David de Gea's successor.

Striker Rasmus Hojlund has also joined Ten Hag's side from Atalanta, but is yet to make his debut for the Premier League side due to injury - but more signings could yet arrive at United with just a few days to go before the transfer window comes to a close.

United have their eye on strengthening central midfield with Fiorentina's Sofyan Amrabat - but their hand could be forced due to cover being needed in a key position.

United are currently without a recognised senior left-back due to injuries for both first choice Luke Shaw and understudy Tyrell Malacia.

For the 3-2 comeback victory against Nottingham Forest, right-sided Diogo Dalot was played at left-back by Ten Hag to fill the gap which has emerged in his squad.

Given the reduced options available at United, it is therefore not a surprise to see reports circulating that the Old Trafford side are assessing their options.

And according to a report from 90min, former Chelsea, Sunderland and Bolton Wanderers defender Alonso is among the candidates that United could turn to when it comes to bringing in another left-back.

Chelsea's Marc Cucurella and Sergio Reguilon are also potential options to bring in, with all three players being out of favour at their respective clubs.

Further to this, a fresh report from German outlet Bild's head of football Christian Falk reports that negotiations between United and Barca are "ongoing" for Alonso's services, with the defender having a contract at the Camp Nou until next summer.

TRUE ✅ Manchester United made a request for Marcos Alonso (contract at FC Barcelona til 2024). Negotations on going @altobelli13 @SPORTBILD @ManUtd @FCBarcelona

— Christian Falk (@cfbayern) August 27, 2023