Manchester United’s extravagant summer splurge, which ended up crossing the £200m mark, ushered in Erik ten Hag’s reign as new manager.
The Dutchman had identified the backbone of the side that needed big reinforcements. And a first-class center-back and two midfielders capable of contributing silk and steel were recruited.
While immediate concerns were met, much more work was required on the transfer front if United were to regain their position at the top of the English football pyramid.
The future of AWB hangs by a thread
Due to exorbitant spending, the Glazers had decided that January would be a quiet window with no notable large income.
But once the Dutch boss complained about the lack of an alternative for Diogo Dalot at right-back, those plans had to be altered.
A backup right-back would be sought during the winter window and Aaron Wan-Bissaka would be rated as not good enough by the manager due to his lack of ball skills at his feet.
Eriksen’s goal against Burnley ⚽️
Aaron Wan Bissaka with the assist ???? pic.twitter.com/y70kujhkzD
— United Clip (@unitedclip) December 21, 2022
Former Ole favorite Gunnar Solskjaer saw a total of four minutes of action this season and constant mystery injuries didn’t help his cause.
But a fine comeback in the first-team scheme of things against Burnley in the EFL Cup, including an acrobatic assist for Christian Eriksen’s goal, got the manager talking about the full-back still having a future at the club.
However, TEAMtalk has exclusively learned that while that may be the case, it won’t necessarily prevent a January exit via the loan route.
A host of Premier League clubs including former club Crystal Palace, West Ham United and newcomers Wolverhampton Wanderers have expressed interest in acquiring the 25-year-old’s services.
Despite Burnley’s heroics, AWB could be loaned out
“There is now a real battle to secure the signature of Aaron Wan-Bissaka,” said Graeme Bailey. “It’s easy to forget that he’s a £50m defender, but this could be the best thing to happen to him.
“He will move on loan and will have the opportunity to play regular first-team football, something that will not happen with Erik Ten Hag.
“Crystal Palace, his former club, have always seemed the likeliest landing place and it is believed that remains the case as they want him back at Selhurst Park.
“Wolves have also put in a great effort, but it’s hard for him to turn down a return to south London and United let him make the decision.”
Due to the funding shortage currently plaguing Old Trafford, a backup right-back could be targeted alongside a new striker, which is the club’s priority in January.
United Matchday Magazine – Stay on top of everything in the red. Still itching for more United content? Get everything you need right here. For just £1.25 per issue / £3.75 per month, you’ll receive unique United information, delivered directly to your inbox, before every game and throughout the month.
Get exclusive preparation for every game, plus team news, tactics and history. Not only that – United Matchday is packed with articles, news, transfer news, riddles, nostalgia and humor. Impress your friends and stay on top of everything in red!
