Paul Scholes Urges Manchester United to Sign £75m Newcastle Defender After Luke Shaw Struggles

Paul Scholes Calls for Manchester United to Sign Lewis Hall Amid Defensive Concerns

Manchester United legend Paul Scholes has urged his former club to make a late push to sign Newcastle United defender Lewis Hall, valued at around £75 million. This comes after Luke Shaw’s recent defensive struggles in the Premier League raised concerns about United’s backline.

Scholes Highlights Defensive Issues

Despite a thrilling 5-2 win over Ipswich Town at Old Trafford, Scholes pointed out glaring defensive weaknesses in Michael Carrick’s side. On The Good, The Bad & The Football podcast, he commented on the shaky first-half performance where United could have easily fallen behind by multiple goals.

"I think United would have taken going 1-0 down, the way they played in the first half. It could have been two or three," Scholes said. "What we saw yesterday sums up what you’re going to get from United. They could have been two or three down but in the second half, they were devastating."

Potential £75 Million Move for Hall

Lewis Hall has long been on United’s radar, but Newcastle have held firm in keeping the 21-year-old. The Magpies consider him one of their key players. Recent reports indicate that a bid exceeding £75 million might convince Newcastle to part with Hall before the transfer window closes.

Scholes believes Shaw’s difficulties against Ipswich’s winger Abdul Fatawu could prompt Carrick to seek fresh additions.

"100 per cent. That will have been going on for months, not just the last couple of days," Scholes noted. "One thing that might help Michael is Shaw’s performance yesterday. He might say, ‘We need him,’ and Hall might be the most viable option available."

Rio Ferdinand Defends Shaw

While Scholes pushes for immediate reinforcements, Rio Ferdinand took a more patient stance. Although acknowledging Shaw’s poor game against Ipswich, Ferdinand insists the left-back remains one of United’s most consistent performers over the past year.

"Some fans were saying, ‘Shaw, get rid!’ But over the last year, he’s been one of our most consistent players," Ferdinand explained on his YouTube channel. "If you want a new left-back, bring someone in gradually to replace Shaw over time. You don’t just find the perfect replacement overnight."

United Explore Other Left-Back Options

With the transfer deadline looming, United are reportedly considering other candidates if the deal for Hall proves too expensive. Scouts have evaluated several players across Europe.

• Ferdi Kadioglu (Brighton)
• Ian Maatsen (Aston Villa)
• Jorge Salinas (Racing Santander)

A loan deal appears more likely given United’s significant spending earlier this summer, especially in midfield.

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