Manchester United’s pursuit of a left-back may eventually come down to a choice between long-term potential and an immediate solution.
Lewis Hall remains the preferred target, but Newcastle United are determined to keep the England international. United are reportedly willing to pay as much as £60million, while Antonee Robinson remains on their radar as a cheaper alternative.
ReadManUtd reported on Wednesday that United are prepared to reach £60m for Hall, although Newcastle’s position remains the biggest obstacle.
Robinson would be a very different signing. At 28, the Fulham defender does not offer Hall’s long-term resale potential, but his Premier League experience could make him a more practical option for Michael Carrick.
Man Utd need a left-back now
United’s interest in the position is increasingly easy to understand.
Luke Shaw is currently the only established senior natural left-back in Carrick’s squad. Patrick Dorgu can play there, but ReadManUtd revealed that Carrick prefers using Dorgu further forward after the Denmark international impressed in attacking areas last season.
Sky Sports has also reported that United are monitoring both Hall and Robinson, with Champions League football increasing the need for depth.
Sky Sports analysis compares Lewis Hall and Antonee Robinson as Manchester United targets
Hall clearly fits the profile United have increasingly targeted. He is 21, already Premier League proven and capable of becoming the long-term successor to Shaw.
The question is how far United should go to sign him.
Robinson offers something different to Hall
Robinson’s case is built more around what he can provide immediately.
Sky’s analysis of last season found that the United States international created more big chances per 90 minutes than Hall, while also recording more tackles and interceptions. He was stronger aerially and lost possession less often.
There is also a tactical difference.
Robinson tends to hold the width and attack down the outside. Hall is more comfortable moving into narrower positions during possession.
That could suit Carrick.
If Dorgu or Cunha operates from the left in a more advanced role, a full-back willing to provide width behind them can stop United becoming too congested centrally.
Robinson already understands the physical demands of the Premier League and has more than 150 appearances in the competition. talkSPORT reports that he is being considered if Newcastle refuse to move on Hall.
There are obvious arguments against the deal.
Hall is considerably younger and could hold the position for most of the next decade. Robinson is approaching 29, and United would eventually need to address the position again.
But United are preparing for a Champions League season now.
If Newcastle continue to demand a fee around £60m for a player they do not want to sell, Robinson could provide the more sensible short-term balance between cost, experience and quality.
Hall may still be the better long-term signing.
Robinson could be the better solution to the problem United currently have.
