Man Utd make PSG wing-back a 'priority' as French club set a price

Manchester United have made Paris Saint-Germain left-back Nuno Mendes a top priority for January.

Manager Ruben Amorim is focusing on the wing back position with PSG now putting a price on the 22-year-old player.

United endured a dismal start under Amorim, losing five of their first six Premier League games, leaving them languishing in 14th place.

However, signs of improvement emerged in their recent 2-2 draw against league leaders Liverpool—a performance many felt deserved more than a single point.

Following a difficult home loss to Newcastle, Amorim has worked extensively with his squad on the training ground, and the draw at Anfield offered glimpses of progress.

Still, the manager recognizes that fresh signings are needed to accelerate the club’s rebuild.

Speaking last week, Amorim confirmed his intent to strengthen the squad.“When the window is open, we can try to do something, and we will try to do something,” Amorim said.

“We now have more time to train and improve. The context is difficult, given our recent losses, but we must manage everything.”

According to The Daily Telegraph, United have identified Mendes as a priority signing to address their left-back issues.

Amorim sees the former Sporting CP star as the ideal addition, particularly with Luke Shaw sidelined for much of the season and Tyrell Malacia still regaining fitness.

Diogo Dalot has been a makeshift option, but Mendes offers a more natural solution. With his PSG contract set to expire in 18 months and no extension in sight, United are optimistic about their chances of securing his signature.

PSG reportedly value Mendes at around €40 million (£33.2m), representing a slight profit on their €38 million investment in 2022.

Mendes, who made 47 appearances under Amorim at Sporting CP, has continued to impress in Paris, averaging strong contributions in both defense and attack.

This season, he has two goals and two assists for PSG, averaging a direct goal contribution every 336.7 minutes in Ligue 1.

His attacking stats, including 1.4 successful dribbles per 90 minutes and 1.0 key passes, make him a perfect fit for Amorim’s system, which relies on wing-backs for width and creativity.

Amorim has been tight-lipped about specific targets, stating, “I will keep that [the positions United are targeting] to myself. But we’ll try to do something.”

United’s ability to fund transfers may depend on outgoing deals, with reports suggesting the sale of Casemiro to Al-Nassr is progressing.

The Brazilian midfielder has struggled in recent months and could fetch a significant fee, easing financial constraints. Antony is another player who might depart, with Real Betis and a reigning league champion reportedly interested in a loan move for the winger.

Meanwhile, United are also monitoring Randal Kolo Muani’s situation at PSG. The 26-year-old striker has been made available for a loan, with Tottenham and Juventus also expressing interest.

Amorim’s desire for a left-back upgrade reflects his commitment to reshaping United into a competitive force.

Mendes, known for his versatility, ball-carrying ability, and attacking output, appears to be the perfect fit for the Portuguese tactician’s dynamic system.