‘Lifelong Liverpool fan’ is now being pursued by United, his versatility could work wonders for Ten Hag

INEOS chiefs have compiled a brand-new defensive shortlist in hopes of bolstering each position across the backline.

It comes after Tyrell Malacia was ruled out of Manchester United’s pre-season tour of the United States to continue his rehabilitation from an injury that left him sidelined for the entirety of the 2023/2024 campaign.

There are hopes that he can return in time for the Reds’ opening fixture against Fulham on August 16, but senior figures still harbour concerns over his and Luke Shaw’s proneness to fitness setbacks; the England international was also unavailable for the best part of last season.

As such, reinforcements are necessary if United want to be competing amongst those at the top of the table after the summer. Previous INEOS signing Archie Brown has been mooted as an option, as well as Feyenoord’s David Hancko.

Read more: United enter advanced talks over deal for ‘phenomenal’ young midfielder who is keen to make up for lost time

Why United could be setting themselves up for failure in Hancko chase

His versatility, being able to play both left-back and centrally, could prove invaluable to Erik ten Hag across the course of the jam-packed fixture schedule, although there is one catch: Hancko is said to be a ‘lifelong Liverpool fan’ who is ‘crazy’ about the club (GiveMeSport).

The 26-year-old has also been targeted by Arne Slot since the Dutchman took the reins at Anfield, and if it comes down to the player’s choice out of his two Premier League suitors, United may have to brace themselves for defeat.