Manchester United are stepping up their search for a left-back – with Tyrell Malacia no closer to returning to action.

Malacia, who has not played for United for 14 months, after twice undergoing surgery to address a knee issue, has not been included in the squad for the club’s US tour. With England star Luke Shaw on an extended break following his involvement at Euro 2024, it means United do not have recognised senior left-back on the three-game tour of the States.

Diogo Dalot moved across to cover at left-back on several occasions last season, but he is also not on the tour, having helped Portugal reach the quarter-finals of Euro 2024. Malacia’s prolonged absence and Shaw’s propensity for injury – he made just 14 appearances last season – has forced United to scour the market for a left-back to start the new season.

Among United’s potential left-back targets are Feyenoord’s David Hancko and former Chelsea star Marcos Alonso, who is a free agent having left Barcelona at the end of last season. Another target United have looked at is Crystal Palace’s Tyrick Mitchell, who could be landed cheaper than his market value, given he only has a year left on his current deal.

Man Utd set to keep hold of flop Antony as transfer branded ‘completely out of reality’

Man Utd target sends direct message to Erik ten Hag after ‘transfer meeting’
United looked at signing Alonso last year, but were unable to make the deal happen, and instead signed Sergio Reguilon on loan from Tottenham. Reguilon’s loan deal was terminated by United in December, with Ten Hag having been told by his medical staff that Shaw and Malacia would both be fit, which ultimately proved erroneous.

Malacia did not play at all last season, while Shaw’s latest injury-sabotaged campaign ended in February, with the 28-year-old making his return to action at Euro 2024. Jadon Sancho has been included in United’s 29-man tour squad, after making his peace with Ten Hag following their public fall-out last season, which led to his exile and subsequent loan back to Borussia Dortmund.

Your turn! Which left-back should Manchester United sign? Join the debate in the comments section

Tyrick Mitchell has impressed at Crystal Palace ( 
Image:
Henry Browne/Getty Images)

Feyenoord defender David Hancko starred for Slovakia at Euro 2024 ( 
Image:
GSI/Icon Sport via Getty Images)
United striker Rasmus Hojlund, included in the tour squad after returning from a post-Euro 2024 break, has been handed the No.9 shirt, last worn by Anthony Martial, who left this summer. A new left-back could mark the Red Devils’ third signing since Sir Jim Ratcliffe became co-owner, having paid £52million for central defencer Leny Yoro and £36m for striker Joshua Zirkzee.