LEIGH, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 13: Brandon Williams of Manchester United reacts during the Premier League 2 match between Manchester United and Manchester City at Leigh Sports Village on December 13, 2020 in Leigh, England. (Photo by Charlotte Tattersall/Getty Images)
According to Chronicle Live (h/t Daily Mail), Newcastle are considering a loan move for Brandon Williams. Steve Bruce has said that the club are looking to add players in the January transfer window but only on loan. Williams has fallen down the pecking order at Old Trafford this season and found game time hard to come by.
The highly-rated left-back was handed his senior debut in an EFL Cup tie against Rochdale in September last year. Williams went on to make 36 appearances across all competitions over the course of an impressive debut season last term. He registered a goal and 2 assists in the process.
However, he has made just 5 appearances this season, with two coming in the EFL Cup and two in the Champions League. It was rather expected that he would find game time hard to come by when United signed Alex Telles this season. Even Shaw has amped up his performances this season to seal the left-back spot.
With two experienced heads in the same position, it is evident that they are going to share the duties through the season. Williams, who is right-footed, cannot even push for the right-back spot as Aaron Wan-Bissaka has made the position his own.
Newcastle roped in Jamal Lewis from Norwich City to bolster their left-back department. The Northern Irishman has quickly established himself as a regular fixture under Steve Bruce.
Indeed, Newcastle have every reason to be pleased with Lewis’ progress but they should be open to the prospect of providing him with some quality competition for his place in the side. With Paul Dummett and Matt Ritchie yet to make a comeback from their respective injuries, the Magpies can certainly do with more depth in that department.
Putting things into context, Newcastle completing a loan deal for Brandon Williams would offer some much-needed cover and quality at the back. With fixtures set to come thick and fast during the second half of the campaign, the inclusion of a talented starlet like Williams would allow Bruce the luxury to rotate his options effectively.
Besides his ability to contribute at both ends of the pitch, Williams’ versatility to operate as a full-back on either side would hand a significant boost to Bruce.
Brandon Williams needs regular game time to keep progressing in the right direction, something that seems unlikely to happen at Man United this season. This is a move that can benefit everyone involved.
Newcastle would get cover in a position they need. Manchester United can feel assured that the player will get experience in the Premier League. Lastly, Williams would get a chance to play on a more frequent basis than what he is getting at United.