5 left-backs Manchester United should target this summer
Despite a substantial improvement from last season, there are still gaps that Jose Mourinho needs to fill if Manchester United need to be in serious contention for Europe's elite trophies next term. They find themselves second in the league table and are also in the semi-finals of the FA Cup this season, which they will want to win to end the season on a high note.
Their defenders have come under fire on many occasions this season and it has needed moments of pure brilliance from goalkeeper David de Gea to save their faces frequently. Mourinho has serious issues particularly at left back, where Ashley Young, who will be 33 years old in July, has been deployed for the majority of the season.
Luke Shaw seems to be heading for the exit door, Matteo Darmian and Daley Blind have failed to impress the manager and have barely started games in the second half of the season. The arrival of a new left-back seems almost inevitable unless Shaw can earn the trust of the manager before the end of the season.
So, we look at 5 players that Mourinho should target this summer in order to strengthen the position:
#5 Alex Grimaldo (Benfica)
A Barcelona youth product, Grimaldo is beginning to show promise. He was signed by Benfica from Barcelona B in 2016, and has since cemented his position as Benfica's first-choice left back. He has 30 appearances in all competitions this campaign and has a goal as well as 4 assists to his name.
He has won back to back league titles with Benfica and was also part of the Spain squad that won the UEFA European Under-19 Championship in 2012. He is under contract till 2021 and although his market value is around £11.70 million, it will take a lot more to rope him in.
An incredibly agile and pacy defender, he is also known for his set-piece taking ability. The 22-year-old is yet to reach his prime and will definitely be a good signing if Mourinho can persuade the player to join the club. He has also been linked with a move to Old Trafford earlier this season.
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