Manchester United’s pursuit of Newcastle left-back Lewis Hall has hit a wall. But the player himself is refusing to back down.
Manchester United have made Lewis Hall their priority left-back target this summer. Michael Carrick sees the 21-year-old as the ideal long-term successor to Luke Shaw. However, Newcastle have made their position clear that Hall is not for sale.
That has not stopped Hall from pushing for a move.
Hall’s determination remains unshaken
According to The Sun, Hall’s wish to leave Newcastle has not changed. The defender remains keen on a move to Old Trafford and has made it absolutely clear that he wants to join the Red Devils. This is despite Newcastle appointing a new head coach. Matthias Jaissle replaced Eddie Howe last month after Howe’s shock exit. Yet Hall still wants out.
Hall had a difficult time under Eddie Howe last season. The English left-back felt that his positional change towards the end of last season cost him a place in the England squad for the World Cup. He believes Howe’s management during the crucial run-in deprived him of the chance to impress Thomas Tuchel. Despite Howe’s departure, Lewis Hall has not changed his mind. He views a fresh start away from Tyneside as necessary for his career.
Newcastle standing firm against selling Lewis Hall
The Magpies are under no financial pressure to sell. They have already raised nearly £245million this summer through the sales of Anthony Gordon, Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimaraes. Losing Hall would represent another significant blow.
Lewis Hall remains under contract until 2029. That gives Newcastle enormous leverage in any negotiation. United have made an initial enquiry two weeks ago. Newcastle turned it down immediately. The club have since informed Hall and his representatives that he will not be allowed to leave St James’ Park this summer.
United’s left-back dilemma
The need for a left-back is pressing. Luke Shaw is the only senior option at the position, following Tyrell Malacia’s departure on a free transfer. Shaw played all 38 league games last season. But he is out of contract next year and would likely have to take a salary reduction to earn a new deal. His injury history makes the need for competition even more urgent.
United have also been offered Arsenal’s Myles Lewis-Skelly. Intermediaries are trying to create a market for the 19-year-old. But United are prioritising Lewis Hall. The player wants the move. The question is whether United can find a way to convince Newcastle to change their stance. With the transfer window ticking down, Lewis Hall will be a name in the news as he wants out.
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