Manchester United make move for struggling England international: report

Manchester United manager Erik Ten Hag file photo
Erik ten Hag will be looking to add much-needed depth this summer (Image credit: Mike Egerton)

Manchester United have had one of the most exciting starts to this summer's transfer window in Europe, with exciting youngsters Joshua Zirkzee and Leny Yoro arriving within two weeks of each other.

The Red Devils marked the start of Sir Jim Ratcliffe's tenure by splashing £90 million on the pair, seeing off competition from AC Milan and Real Madrid for the duo's respective signatures.

Reports suggest that Erik ten Hag is now looking at bolstering other areas of his squad as they look to improve on a dismal eighth-placed finish in the League last season, with a full back and a midfielder taking priority.

VIDEO: Why Signing Archie Gray Was A Masterstroke By Spurs

Manchester United targeting forgotten England international

Manchester United suffered an injury crisis last season with the defence undoubtedly the most heavily affected area on the pitch, with ten Hag forced to play without a natural left back for the final third of the campaign.

Luke Shaw's return to fitness in the latter stages of Euro 2024 will undoubtedly be a welcome change, however his relentless history of injuries has proven that he cannot be counted upon on a consistent basis irrespective of his ability when fit.

Elsewhere, Tyrell Malacia became the butt of a number of jokes on social media last season as his prolonged and unexplained absence last season saw him fail to make a single appearance as well as missing this summer's tour of the United States.

Manchester United target ATLANTA, GEORGIA - JULY 31: Ben Chilwell of Chelsea in action during the Pre-Season Friendly match between Chelsea FC and Club America at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on July 31, 2024 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images)

Chilwell at Chelsea (Image credit: Getty Images)

According to TalkSPORT, ten Hag is seemingly unwilling to risk suffering a similar fate in the upcoming campaign as the Red Devils look set to make a move for Chelsea left back Ben Chilwell.

Chilwell, who arrived at Stamford Bridge in a £50 million deal from Leicester City, has been deemed surplus to requirements by incoming manger Enzo Maresca leading to rumours of a departure.

The 27-year-old has a market value of around £25 million, according to TransferMarkt, meaning a deal could be done at a reasonable price should the sides enter negotiations.

Chilwell is somewhat of an injury concern himself, Chilwell missed 35 games last season alone, resulting in a drop in form which has seen him fail to make the England squad for Euro 2024.

Luke Shaw Manchester United and England left-back at training

Shaw is still yet to return to pre-season (Image credit: Getty Images)

More Manchester United stories

Manchester United to make THIRD attempt to sign European star, following two failed offers: report

Manchester United agree terms for highly-rated star, as club legend proves 'crucial' to deal: report

Gary Neville reveals size of financial 'risk' taken with first Manchester United contract

James Ridge is a freelance journalist based in the UK. He recently spent time with The United Stand as an online news editor and has covered the beautiful game from England’s eighth tier all the way to the Premier League.