Three ways Manchester United could line up if they complete Patrick Dorgu transfer
With a little under two weeks to go until the January transfer window closes, time is running out for Manchester United to strengthen their squad.
United do not have a budget for this month's window, meaning they are reliant on outgoings to fund new additions, but they have held talks with Italian side Lecce about the prospect of signing left-sided wing-back Patrick Dorgu.
As reported by the Manchester Evening News on Monday, United have identified the Danish international as an option to strengthen their left wing-back options. United want to sign a left-sided player to effectively replace Luke Shaw, while Tyrell Malacia could be moved on this year.
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Dorgu has impressed in Serie A for Lecce so far this season, chipping in with three goals and one assist in 20 league appearances. He has also made his senior debut for Denmark this term and marked the occasion with a goal inside 50 seconds of stepping off the bench.
With United keen to lure to the 20-year-old to Old Trafford, MEN Sport has had a look at three ways United could line up with him within their ranks.
His natural role
With Shaw having made just three substitute appearances this season and Malacia still building up his fitness after more than a year out injured, United have gone practically the whole campaign without a recognised left-back/left wing-back, meaning Diogo Dalot has had to deputise.
He is not a long-term solution and Amorim needs a left-footed player operating in that role, likewise a strong athlete that can burst forward and offer the team plenty of energy and power.
Dorgu is a suitable fit on the left flank. If signed, it is likely Amorim will immediately install him as first-choice to give United some much-needed balance.
On the right
Despite being a left-sided player by trade, Dorgu is no stranger to playing on the right. According to football data specialists Transfermarkt, he has made 10 of his 22 appearances for Lecce this season as a right-winger.
Signing a player of such versatility is what United need. As well as being a right wing-back option, Dorgu could also provide Amorim with an option for the right-sided No.10 role.
The United boss' hunger for a left-footed No.10 has been highlighted by Amad's recent switch from the right wing-back berth.
In the back-three
As well as being capable of operating on either flank, Dorgu can play on the left of a back-three. United transitioned to a three-at-the-back system following Amorim's appointment and Lisandro Martinez is their only left-footed centre-back.
The Argentine has not been at his sparkling best this season, meaning Dorgu could provide competition, particularly if United were to sign another left-sided wing-back given their interest in Bournemouth's Milos Kerkez.
Dorgu has played in a back-three for Lecce and offered signs of encouragement that he can play as a left-sided centre-back. He has good awareness and uses his body well.
