Alex Telles: Manchester United Defender Closing In On Old Trafford Exit

Manchester United left-back, Alex Telles, looks set to be leaving Old Trafford in the coming weeks, as the 2022/23 season gets underway.

The Brazil international has faced increased competition in his position following the arrival of Tyrell Malacia from Feyenoord and now looks to be third in the pecking order behind the Dutchman and England international, Luke Shaw.

It currently appears that Telles will play his football elsewhere for the upcoming season, with minutes in the United side likely to be hard to come by for the 29 year-old.

Telles has struggled since his transfer from Porto in 2020, with the defender unable to justify his initial signing.

While one goal and eight assist across 50 appearances for Manchester United doesn’t make for awful viewing, Telles’ defensive frailties have been the backbone of the criticism levelled at the fullback by fans and the media alike.

It is yet to become apparent whether Telles’ likely exit this summer will be a permanent one, with suggestions being made that a loan move is more likely at this moment.

As has been reported by Fabrizio Romano, La Liga side, Sevilla, are one of a number of clubs interested in signing the Brazilian.

However, it appears that any deal involving Telles depends on Manchester United’s willingness to continue paying a proportion of the defender’s wages.

Porto were also rumoured to be interested in bringing Telles back to The Dragon Stadium however, various sources have dismissed this idea.

Telles himself will be desperate for minutes this coming term, with a need to prove himself to Brazil boss, Tite, ahead of the Qatar World Cup at the end of the year.

As previously mentioned, it is unlikely that Telles will find an abundance of these minutes at Old Trafford this season.

The left back featured in United’s most recent pre-season game against Rayo Vallecano, as part of a squad which was regarded largely as a second string team.

Even in this game, Telles showcased a lack of defensive awareness and judgement which embodied his United career to date. 

At 29 years of age, Telles will be hoping that any potential move will allow him to re-ignite his career before he enters his thirties, giving him a chance to finish his career in an impressive fashion.

New Manchester United boss, Erik ten Hag, will most likely be open to allowing the departure of the Brazilian, having primarily used Luke Shaw and new signing, Tyrell Malacia, during pre-season.

Telles’ departure would free up space in the wage structure which would enable new signings to join the club in a number of positions that the club are still lacking in.

It will become apparent over the next week if the interest in Telles is serious enough to warrant a move away from the club.