Manchester United's 'transfer priority' revealed as Erik ten Hag scours market ahead of deadline

Manchester United’s transfer priority has been revealed ahead of Friday’s deadline.

It has been widely reported that United are exploring the possibility of signing a left-back in the remaining days of the transfer window after the injury sustained by Luke Shaw against Tottenham, which could keep the 28-year-old out until November.

As per the Guardian, Chelsea’s Marc Cucurella, Tottenham’s Sergio Reguilón and Barcelona’s Marcos Alonso are all on Erik ten Hag’s list of targets.

However, any deal for the three, all fringe players at their respective clubs, would reportedly be on a temporary basis.

Indeed, United’s back-up left-back Tyrell Malacia, is also out for a prolonged period with an injury, with Ten Hag having played Diogo Dalot in that position in a 3-2 win over Nottingham Forest on Saturday.

Meanwhile, the Independent’s Miguel Delaney has claimed United are in talks with Lyon over a permanent move for Argentina international Nicolas Tagliafico.

While the Ligue 1 side want £5.15million plus bonuses for the World Cup winner, there is reportedly still some way to go in any deal, as United would prefer a loan.

That’s because according to the publication, the Old Trafford hierarchy would prefer to save any money for a midfield signing, which is their main priority ahead of the transfer window closing.

Despite having spent £150million this summer on Andre Onana, Mason Mount and Rasmus Hojlund, United have endured an unconvincing start to the season, despite wins over Wolves and Nottingham Forest.

And according to Sky Sports United have made “initial contact” over a deal for Tottenham midfielder Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg.

The Denmark international has entered the final two years of his contract at Spurs, with the club allegedly open to the player leaving if a suitable offer were to come in. Hojbjerg was close to joining Atletico Madrid earlier this window.

Next up for United is last season’s runners-up Arsenal at the weekend, before hosting Brighton after the international break.