Luke Shaw was missed in Red Devils FA Cup semi-final with Chelsea. England international was a key part of Man United’s 19-game winning run and is developing a good understanding with Marcus Rashford on the left. Alex Telles has scored a fantastic 13 goals from left-back this campaign for Porto and provided nine assists.
But when it comes to attacking impact, Luke sits at only one assist and one goal in 33 games, with none in the PL. If the Red Devils want a more dynamic attacking footballer at left-back, then the list should start and end with Porto defender Alex Telles.
So while Shaw is an important figure, there is a feeling that Man United could possibly find a more explosive player at the position, especially looking at Andrew Robertson’s 10-assist campaign in the same role for Liverpool, following on from 11 last campaign.
In July alone Brazil international has two goals and three assists over his last four matches. Alex is unstoppable right now. Telles has 55 assists and 24 goals in four campaigns since signing for the Liga NOS giants in 2016. That is such a strong contribution from a left-back.
A move for the 27-year-old defender would not necessarily mean ‘time up’ for Luke Shaw. But it would give the Red Devils a totally different option in the position. Man United’s transfer business will revolve around Jadon Sancho this summer. The Brazilian left-back though could be very affordable.
Man United could keep Shaw and put faith in Brandon Williams to develop, but if the Red Devils are serious about getting better immediately and challenging for a title next campaign, then a move for Alex Telles this summer would provide the club with an immediate short-term boost.