Man United 'track' Patrick Dorgu transfer alternatives as Casemiro exit route blocked
Manchester United have reportedly drawn up a list of possible options at left-back as they explore the possibility of bringing in a new reinforcements this month.
Although the club must sell before they buy, the proposed departures of Marcus Rashford and Antony could free up funds. ESPN reckon that, if sales are made, United would be willing to reinvest some of that money at full-back.
Given Luke Shaw's ongoing injury issues, Diogo Dalot - predominantly a right-back - has featured as a left wing-back in Ruben Amorim's system. Tyrell Malacia is another option, but has been used on occasions after spending over a year out with a knee injury.
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As a result, three names are claimed to have been included in a list of potential options at left-back. Those being Lecce's Patrick Dorgu - who The Manchester Evening News understands to be a firm target - plus Crystal Palace's Tyrick Mitchell and Rayan Ait-Nouri from Wolves.
The report adds that "enquiries" have been made about all three. However, Lecce's president Sticchi Damiani has shut down any possibilities of a transfer materialising for Dorgu this month.
"We met with United and we told them that our plan is to keep our key players, including Patrick Dorgu," he told Sky Sports. "We're delighted to have United here to make a proposal, but our target to stay in Serie A is crucial."
Elsewhere, Al-Nassr have reportedly opted against signing Casemiro. The Brazilian veteran has been linked with a switch to Saudi Arabia as he finds himself out of favour at Old Trafford.
The club have a desire to get some of their big earners off the books and would also gain a fee to reinvest during this window. Recent reports had indicated that Cristiano Ronaldo had requested Al-Nassr to offer Casemiro a deal while Brazilian outlet UOL reported he had "agreed" a move to the Gulf state this month.
However, a switch to Saudi Arabia's Pro League appears to be "off the table" for now, according to The Athletic. A reunion with Ronaldo will no longer happen as Al-Nassr are not looking to sign a midfielder anymore.