Manchester United set to have completed their second January signing of the season as a player was spotted at London Carrington signing Autographs for fans
Manchester United’s ongoing difficulties under Ruben Amorim haven’t come as a shock, especially considering the squad’s struggles to adapt to his preferred 3-4-3 formation. This tactical setup places a heavy emphasis on wing-backs who are not just defensively sound but also dynamic in attack. However, the left side of the pitch continues to be a persistent weak spot, exposing a crucial flaw in Amorim’s system.
Luke Shaw, once a dependable presence, is now hampered by recurring fitness concerns and declining athleticism, making it hard for him to keep up with the high demands of a wing-back role in this system. Meanwhile, Tyrell Malacia, recently back from a long injury layoff, has yet to convince observers that he can meet the tactical and physical expectations required to thrive under Amorim.
To address this glaring issue, Manchester United are reportedly eyeing a move for Paris Saint-Germain’s Nuno Mendes. Valued at £58 million, the 22-year-old Portuguese international seems tailor-made for Amorim’s blueprint. Known for his explosive pace, intelligent defensive play, and attacking flair, Mendes possesses the qualities that could breathe life into United’s underperforming left flank. His ability to stretch defenses, deliver accurate crosses, and track back swiftly makes him one of the most complete young full-backs in European football.
Bringing Mendes to Old Trafford would be no small feat. The financial investment alone is significant, but even more daunting is the task of luring him away from PSG—a club consistently competing in the Champions League—especially when United themselves are in a period of transition. Moreover, other elite European clubs are likely to rival United’s interest, adding further complications to any potential deal. However, the shared Portuguese roots between Amorim and Mendes could play a role in tipping the balance, especially if the project at United is sold convincingly.
Should the club succeed in this pursuit, Mendes could play a pivotal role in solving a long-standing problem on the pitch while also reinforcing Amorim’s tactical authority. His presence would not just patch a weakness but could also catalyze a wider transformation within the squad. While far from guaranteed, signing Mendes would be a powerful statement—both in terms of ambition and strategic direction—as United look to regain their edge in the Premier League and beyond.
