Manchester United are reportedly drawing up a shortlist of potential targets ahead of this summer. The absence of Patrick Dorgu has been a huge headache for Michael Carrick amid a lack of options on the left.
Dorgu has been sidelined with a hamstring injury since January, and Carrick has only been able to turn to Matheus Cunha on the left wing. The Dane’s absence means Luke Shaw is also without viable competition at left-back.
United’s interim coach suggested last week that a new left-winger could be one of the club’s priorities this summer. That will almost certainly be the case should he be appointed permanently.
Tavernier tempts United
United appear to have set their sights on Bournemouth’s Marcus Tavernier, who is enjoying a fine season at the Vitality. The versatile English attacker has starred under Andoni Iraola, playing on both wings and in attacking midfield.
According to Mail Sport, Tavernier is the latest name to appear on the Reds’ wishlist. He is on the club’s radar alongside Nottingham Forest’s Morgan Gibbs-White and RB Leipzig’s Yan Diomande.
Tavernier might have put the higher-ups on notice with his display in a 4-4 draw between United and Bournemouth in December. He scored a stunning goal and was one of Iraola’s standout performers on the night.
The Red Devils might face competition for the Cherries man as Aston Villa and Forest are also eyeing the 28-year-old. He will have three years left on his contract this summer, and the South Coast outfit is believed to want around £40m.
| Marcus Tavernier (Premier League 2025-26) | Statistic |
|---|---|
| Appearances: | 25 |
| Goals: | 5 |
| Assists: | 4 |
| Big chances created: | 5 |
| Key passes: | 1.3 |
| Accurate crosses: | 0.4 (13%) |
| Successful dribbles: | 0.9 (38%) |
| Ground duels won: | 3.1 (42%) |
| Aerial duels won: | 0.7 (41%) |
Tavernier’s Premier League experience could be attracting the club’s scouts to weigh up a move. The focus has been on targeting players who are already familiar with English football.
Bryan Mbeumo and Cunha both arrived at Old Trafford last summer off the back of impressive spells with Brentford and Wolverhampton Wanderers. INEOS might feel they can replicate their successful start with the club by swooping for Tavernier.
Is it worth it?
Tavernier wouldn’t be the most glamorous acquistion especially if he is signed instead of Diomande. The 19-year-old is earning rave reviews in Germany and is one of Europe’s most highly sought-after attacking talents.
That said, signing the Englishman does address a clear issue the United have on the left side of their attack. His versatility will also be beneficial, allowing whoever is in charge to rotate the squad for a potential Champions League campaign.
A £40m fee isn’t too steep for a player Iraola recently described as ‘quality.’ INEOS might not want to splash too much cash on a new left-winger, having only signed Cunha last summer.
