Man Utd’s last-gasp transfer splurge casts light on Erik ten Hag’s costly error

01 September 2023 , 10:00

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Man Utd’s last-gasp transfer splurge casts light on Erik ten Hag’s costly error

For the second summer in a row, Manchester United have entered the market to sign a left-back.

A little over 12 months on from the capture of Tyrell Malacia, Erik ten Hag has been forced to source emergency cover with the Dutchman and Luke Shaw both expected to be sidelined for a significant period through injury.

Despite exploring a move for Chelsea wing-back Marc Cucurella, it's looking more and more likely that Tottenham outcast Sergio Reguilon will be tasked with deputising for the Red Devils until either Shaw or Malacia are available to make a return, with a temporary deal now nearing completion.

The Athletic have outlined that 'financial and football' factors drove United's pursuit of Reguilon; it's believed a deal for the Spaniard will involve no loan fee, which could help the club to facilitate an agreement with Fiorentina for Sofyan Amrabat, another deadline day target.

However, The Manchester Evening News have highlighted that Manchester United will cover Reguilon's £120,000-a-week wages in full during his loan stint - meaning the club will be shelling out around £350,000-a-week on left-backs alone going forward.

Marcel Sabitzer completes Man Utd transfer after last-minute deadline day dash

With Shaw believed to be on around £150,000-a-week and Malacia earning a sum in the region of £75,000-a-week, the Red Devils will be paying a small fortune in wages until Reguilon, presumably, returns to Tottenham in January courtesy of a break clause.

Join the debate! What do you make of Man Utd's summer transfer business? Let us know here.

Sergio Reguilon is poised to complete a loan switch to Manchester United (Tottenham Hotspur FC)

Although injuries have played a part in United's need for a left-back, the arrival of Reguilon has drawn attention to last summer's deal for Malacia.

The Dutch international was Ten Hag's first signing and made a good early impression at Old Trafford ahead of Shaw. However, Shaw soon regained his place and evolved into one of the more influential players in the Manchester United team last season - leaving Malacia sitting on the bench.

12 months on, there is every chance he will be joined there by Reguilon once Shaw makes a return to full fitness. Considering funds are tight at United, that's a fairly damning indictment of their recent strategy; particularly as another left-back, the highly-rated Alvaro Fernandez - who has been courted by Premier League rivals Burnley - is also still at the club.

While injuries to Shaw and Malacia are beyond Ten Hag's control and Reguilon has a wealth of experience and proven Premier League pedigree, United will pay a heavy price - both figuratively and literally - in juggling all three of them until the New Year.

Dan Marsh