When Manchester United began their search for a left-back last week the first reaction of many was to look up who played there for Erik ten Hag at Ajax. Simplistic it might be, but it's hardly without merit and sure enough, Nicolas Tagliafico has emerged as an option in the final days of the transfer window.
United have spent the previous year or so insisting their recruitment mechanisms have improved significantly, that there is now a robust and professional department delivering a high-calibre list of potential targets to the manager. The usual process is to offer up four or five players, with Ten Hag having the final say.
But for all that may be the case, there is a clear trend for Ten Hag opting for what he knows. United are pushing for three signings this week - including a deal that is in place for back-up goalkeeper Altay Bayindir - and some of the names being considered fit that bill, including Tagliafico.
The 30-year-old Argentine moved to Lyon from Ajax for £3.5million a year ago and is a regular for the Ligue 1 side, but earlier this month Ajax were looking into a deal to bring Tagliafico back to Amsterdam. Now United could consider a loan move for a player who featured 169 times under Ten Hag.
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While a short-term deal for a left-back is favoured, with Marc Cucurella and Sergio Reguilon also under consideration, a permanent deal for a midfielder remains an option this week. However, that is likely to be dependent on raising cash from departures, such as Eric Bailly, Hannibal Mejbri or Donny van de Beek.
There are several options being considered for that role, but Sofyan Amrabat has been a potential target all summer and the 27-year-old is being kept out of
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