Manchester United considered a late-window move for Lyon left-back Nicolas Tagliafico and held preliminary talks over Wolverhampton Wanderers' highly-rated attacker Mateus Mané before the transfer deadline, according to reports.
United opted against late Tagliafico swoop
According to transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano, speaking on his daily briefing, Manchester United internally discussed signing 34-year-old Lyon defender Nicolas Tagliafico as a short-term solution to their left-back shortage. With Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia both sidelined with injuries at the start of the season, United explored market opportunities but ultimately chose not to proceed with a formal offer for the Argentina international. Romano clarified that the decision to walk away from the deal was entirely United's choice rather than a rejection from the player or the French club.
The decision to bypass Tagliafico leaves manager Michael Carrick to rely on Diogo Dalot as a makeshift left-back, alongside academy prospects, until Shaw returns to full fitness. United's recruitment team reportedly prioritised long-term financial sustainability over a quick-fix veteran signing, avoiding the wage commitment that a deal for the former Ajax defender would have required.
Talks held for Wolves prospect Mateus Mané
In addition to their left-back search, Manchester United and rivals Liverpool both held talks regarding a potential move for Wolves' 18-year-old forward Mateus Mané before the window closed, as first reported by Apex Football. The teenage winger has drawn significant attention after impressing in the West Midlands academy setup.
While no formal agreement was reached before the deadline, the joint interest from two of the Premier League's biggest clubs significantly elevates Mané's profile ahead of the January window. Wolves remain determined to protect their youth assets, but continued interest from Carrick's side and Andoni Iraola's Liverpool suggests a battle for his signature could re-emerge in future transfer windows.
