The sensational full-back Manchester United can beat Real Madrid to re-sign in January to save their season

There is no doubt Manchester United have been hit hard by the consistent injuries to Luke Shaw. When Shaw is fit, he is one of the best full-backs in the Premier League and one regularly called upon by his country. However, he has not been fit for a while, and there are doubts about whether he will be consistently available in the long term.

Shaw continues to show up at Carrington, but there comes a time when the club must move on and find the next big talent to help them return to the very top. Reports suggest they are eyeing Spanish sensation Álvaro Carreras. Both Real Madrid and Barcelona have shown interest, but Manchester United are also now reportedly looking at him.

According to Portuguese outlet O Jogo, the 21-year-old is open to leaving as early as January. With the level of clubs interested in him and the void left by Shaw's absence at United, the sooner they make a move for him, the better.

Carreras' United connection

Carreras initially joined Benfica on loan from Manchester United in January, before the Portuguese club made his move permanent this summer. The Red Devils included a clause to re-sign the player, and they are closely monitoring his progress.

The interesting thing about Carreras is that he came through the Manchester United academy. He had loan spells at Preston and Granada before joining Benfica, first on loan and then permanently. Despite having a long-term contract with the Portuguese club, Benfica is known to be a selling club, and United’s buy-back clause puts them in a good position to bring him back.

United’s left-back dilemma

The left-back position has become a real headache for United. They initially hoped Tyrell Malacia would recover in time from an injury that has seriously hampered his career at the club. Last season, United brought in Sergio Reguilón from Spurs, but halfway through the campaign, they decided to let him go as Malacia was expected to return and Shaw seemed ready. However, when Reguilón left and joined Brentford, both Malacia and Shaw suffered setbacks, which significantly affected United’s league form. Although Ten Hag managed to secure an FA Cup win, there is a feeling that United need a younger, long-term solution at left-back.

Rebuilding for the future

Some may argue against bringing Carreras back, especially as it could cost around £25 million. However, Manchester United sold Paul Pogba and then brought him back when they felt it was the right move, leading to trophy success under José Mourinho. The situation with Carreras could follow a similar path.

United clearly need a new left-back. The question is whether they persist with their current options and continue to struggle or exercise their buy-back clause to secure a talented young player, someone even Real Madrid and Barcelona are keen on.

January will be a massive month for United, who have started the season disappointingly. Securing a new left-back could be the first step in salvaging their season.