Fabrizio Romano makes late-window ‘guarantee’ over Man Utd signing after call with Jorge Mendes

Fabrizio Romano has assured Manchester United fans that the club are still actively doing their utmost to bring in a left-back before the transfer deadline.

Having completed the much-needed midfield rebuild, INEOS have now turned their attention to bolstering Michael Carrick’s backline.

United’s left-back pursuit: The state of play

However, after shelling out £148 million upfront for the arrivals of Andrey Santos (£48m), Carlos Baleba (£65m) and Youri Tielemans (£35m), the budget is limited in these final days.

The Reds have accepted that a deal for first-choice target Lewis Hall is not feasible this summer, partly due to the fee he would command, but primarily because of Newcastle United deeming him off-limits.

Alternative targets such as Jorge Salinas of Racing de Santander and RB Leipzig captain David Raum have been mooted, though United have perhaps left it too late, given the clubs would need to find their own replacements for the full-backs.

Alas, Romano has suggested that INEOS chiefs will look to bring in a stop-gap signing who can provide coverage for Luke Shaw, as they did with Sergio Reguilón back in 2023.

What did Romano have to say?

Speaking on the situation on YouTube, the transfer reporter said: “I can guarantee to you that United are still looking for a solution for left-back.

“I will not be surprised if they end up with a solution for a player who can be almost a guarantee, so maybe not a superstar name like [Alejandro] Balde, because they considered Balde.

“United had a call with Jorge Mendes one week ago, but the deal is too expensive; the transfer fee and salary are too expensive. United are not going to do that, at least now. Then, if they change it, I will let you know.

“But just as a comparison, you remember when United signed Sergio Reguilón? [It will be] something similar. That kind of player, an experienced left back who can provide competition and also an international profile. So United are exploring these kinds of options.”