Paul Scholes Calls on Manchester United to Sign Newcastle Defender Lewis Hall Amid Luke Shaw's Struggles
Manchester United legend Paul Scholes has urged his former club to make a late move for Newcastle United defender Lewis Hall. This comes after observing Luke Shaw's defensive difficulties in the Premier League.
Defensive Concerns After Ipswich Victory
Despite a 5-2 win against Ipswich Town at Old Trafford, Scholes voiced concerns about United’s defensive stability. Speaking on The Good, The Bad & The Football podcast, he said the team looked vulnerable early on, suggesting they could have been two or three goals behind at halftime.
"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 commented. "What we saw sums up what you’re going to get from United. They could have been two or three down but then, in the second half, they were devastating."
Transfer Price and Newcastle’s Stance
Lewis Hall has long been on United’s radar, but Newcastle have resisted selling the 21-year-old, viewing him as a key player. Recent reports suggest the Magpies might reconsider if offered around £75 million.
Scholes pointed out that Shaw’s poor performance against Ipswich winger Abdul Fatawu might prompt manager Michael Carrick to push for reinforcements urgently. He said, "That will have been going on for months, not just recently. Shaw getting done like he did yesterday might be the trigger for Carrick to say, 'We need him.' Hall seems the most feasible option available."
Rio Ferdinand Supports Shaw Despite Criticism
In contrast, former United defender Rio Ferdinand took a calmer view of Shaw’s struggles. On his YouTube channel, he defended the left-back as one of United’s most consistent players over the past year.
"Some fans are saying, 'Shaw, get rid!' But Shaw has been among our most reliable performers. If you want a replacement, you should bring in someone to gradually take over, not expect an immediate swap," Ferdinand explained.
United Exploring Other Left-Back Options
As the transfer deadline nears, United have looked at alternatives beyond Hall. With a hefty midfield investment already made this summer, a loan deal might be more practical.
- Ferdi Kadioglu (Brighton)
- Ian Maatsen (Aston Villa)
- Jorge Salinas (Racing Santander)
These players have been scouted as potential left-back solutions to address the ongoing challenges in that position.
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- Ipswich Town (IPS) vs Manchester United (MUN): 4 Sept 2026, 21:00
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