The Sun claims Manchester United are plotting a swoop for Atletico Madrid left-back Lucas Hernandez. The Frenchman signed a new long-term contract with his current club this summer which is supposed to keep him at the club till 2024.
To sign him, United must pay a hefty release clause which is expected to rise as high as £72million.
Jose Mourinho wanted to bring in defensive reinforcements in the summer transfer window. However, his relationship with Ed Woodward has worsened after the latter vetoed against signing Toby Alderweireld and Harry Maguire (h/t The Sun).
However, United’s poor start to the season has exposed their porous backline to a large extent and Mourinho should sign the versatile Frenchman in the January window.
Hernandez, the French international of Spanish origin, began his senior career with Atletico Madrid in 2014 and has made a total of 54 appearances for the Spanish giants in the La Liga. He made his international debut for France earlier this year prior to the World Cup and played and key role in his nation’s route to glory.
A versatile defender, Hernandez is blessed with the ability to play as a left-back and a centre-back. Although he is primarily a left-back by trade, Mourinho must also toy with the idea of utilizing him in the heart of the defence.
The 22-year-old is quite swift and agile while playing on the left-flank and often cuts out attacks with his commendable tackling and blocking skills. His technique is admirable and the player is comfortable with the ball at his feet, allowing him to venture forward with ease and join the attack. Hernandez has often been deployed either as a left-wing-back or a left-midfielder to make optimum use of his dribbling and crossing abilities.
Apart from that, the French international has an appreciable physical strength and has aerial ability could be resourceful for the team. These qualities make him a good option and United must make a move for him.
Luke Shaw has been United’s standout performer this season and has been the only bright spot of their rather shaky backline. Ashley Young is another option for Mourinho at left-back. Hence, Hernandez should be the ideal man to provide cover and competition for the likes of Phil Jones, Chris Smalling, Victor Lindelof and Eric Bailly.
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If the move to sign Lucas Hernandez materializes in January, he could be the perfect solution for Manchester United’s defensive woes. They must break the bank to bring him to Old Trafford but Mourinho should do everything in his power to complete the deal.