Three left-backs Man United can still sign after the transfer deadline as the Rayan Ait-Nouri move falls through
Manchester United might still be able to sign a left-back this summer, even though the transfer window has officially closed. After 78 days and 23 hours, the 2026/27 summer transfer window has shut, meaning all 20 Premier League teams now have their squads set.
Deadline Day was full of action, with clubs like Manchester City, Chelsea, and Tottenham Hotspur making last-minute signings. However, Manchester United fans were a bit disappointed because, despite making four signings earlier in the summer, the team didn’t complete any deals on the final day.
Earlier this summer, United strengthened their midfield by signing Youri Tielemans, Andrey Santos, and Carlos Baleba for a total of £155 million. They also got Karl Darlow on a free transfer. As the deadline got closer, United tried to sign a new left-back to support Luke Shaw. Names like Barcelona’s Alejandro Balde and Racing Santander’s Jorge Salinas were linked with the club.
One surprising story was Manchester United trying to get Rayan Ait-Nouri from their city rivals, Manchester City. However, the deal didn’t happen because City only wanted to loan him with an obligation to buy, and United weren’t interested in a permanent deal.
That said, United can still sign a left-back during the season since some free agents are available anytime. Here are three left-backs who could be good options if United really needs cover this season.
First is Oleksandr Zinchenko, who has plenty of Premier League experience from his time at Manchester City, Arsenal, and Nottingham Forest. He’s played 150 Premier League games, but he’s recovering from knee surgery after a serious injury in February. It’s unclear when he’ll be fully fit, but if he is ready soon, he could be a handy short-term signing.
Next is veteran Portuguese defender Raphaël Guerreiro. He’s won the Bundesliga, Euro 2016, and the 2019 Nations League. Guerreiro left Bayern Munich this summer after three years and is a free agent now. Known for his versatility, he can fill in many positions, which could be very helpful for United. Plus, at 32, he might accept a lower wage to join Old Trafford.
Finally, there’s Tyrell Malacia – a player United fans know well. The Dutch left-back spent four years at the club before leaving this summer when his contract expired. Many fans thought United would find a replacement over the summer, but since they haven’t, they might consider bringing Malacia back if they really need him. He already knows the club and many of the players, which could make the move easier.
So, while the transfer window might be closed, Manchester United still has options if they need to sign a left-back later on in the season!