Manchester United’s defeat to Hull City on the opening day highlighted that there are still a number of gaps to address in the squad.

United remain interested in reinforcing the left side of the pitch by bringing in an attack-minded full-back.

In the past few days, their interest in Alejandro Balde has grown following Barcelona’s decision to move him on from Camp Nou. Even so, Lewis Hall continues to be the club’s top target.

According to Teamtalk, Manchester United have looked at several alternative options, but Hall is the player they want above all others.

Newcastle United are unwilling to part with Hall, with new head coach Matthias Jaissle eager to make the England international a key figure in his plans.

It is understood that Newcastle’s position is so firm that “United would need to break the world transfer record for a left-back just to make the Magpies seriously consider a deal.”

That record is currently £68 million, the amount Bayern Munich paid Real Madrid for Lucas Hernandez in 2019.

Hall is regarded as one of the most complete full-backs in Europe, with the technical quality and athletic ability required to control his flank in every phase of the game.

It is claimed United are “prepared to test” Newcastle’s resolve with a little over a week left in the transfer window, but an offer in the region of £70 million is said to be unlikely.

Because of that, a transfer is viewed as increasingly improbable, although the report does not dismiss the possibility of a formal move in the coming days.

Hall, 21, is believed to be interested in a switch to Old Trafford.

At the same time, United are said to be exploring “every possibility” and have also kept tabs on Balde, Racing Santander’s Jorge Salinas, RB Leipzig star David Raum and Bournemouth’s Adrien Truffert.

The Peoples Person Reliability Assessment Overall credibility: 6/10 Why?

✅ United have been widely reported to be keen on signing a left-back ✅ The player matches United’s tactical and financial profile ⚠️ The outlet’s track record on transfer exclusives has been more miss than hit