Man Utd identify 22yo German star as prime target, £52m could seal the deal - report

Manchester United have identified Eintracht Frankfurt star Nathaniel Brown as a prime target to compete with Luke Shaw for the left-back position next season, according to Fussball Daten.

The Red Devils are poised to make multiple defensive signings this summer. The main priority could be a holding midfielder, but the club could also sign a centre-back and a left-back.

Shaw is presently the undisputed choice on the left side of United’s defence. Patrick Dorgu has been more comfortable as a winger, and United may want another specialist to compete with Shaw.

Fussball Daten claim that United have earmarked Brown as the top target and believe he has the credentials to succeed Shaw.

He won’t come on the cheap, with Frankfurt eyeing a fee between £52 million and £61 million to part ways with the Germany international.

Brown would be a fine acquisition for United

The 22-year-old has had a good season with Frankfurt. He has managed 10 goal contributions from 35 appearances in all competitions.

Brown has played an equal number of games at left wing-back and left-back, and has also occasionally operated as a left-sided winger too.

He has likewise been solid defensively. The German has won 60 percent of his ground duels in the Bundesliga alongside two tackles and three recoveries per game.

Brown is just entering the prime of his career and would be a fine acquisition at left-back. He has the credentials to displace Shaw from the left-back position in future.

Shaw has been ever-present in the league this campaign, but the scenario should be different next term with United poised to return to European football once more.

The club could also have longer Cup runs. With Shaw’s injury record in the past, his workload may need to be managed, and Brown should get plenty of starts at United.

Frankfurt want at least £52 million for their prized asset, but United should seek to negotiate a lower initial fee. A fixed fee of £40m plus add-ons would represent good business.

Article written by Sri Aswin .