Manchester United eye Lewis Hall amid Newcastle United changes

By Sam Whitlock — 31 July 2026 — 4 min read

Manchester United are reportedly preparing a move for Newcastle United left-back Lewis Hall. This interest comes during a period of significant change at the Tyneside club, which Manchester United may view as an opportunity to secure the player.

Reports indicate that Eddie Howe has departed Newcastle United after five seasons, with Matthias Jaissle, currently managing Al Ahli, expected to be his replacement. Howe shares an agent with Hall, and his exit marks a turbulent time for Newcastle United.

The departure of Howe is not the only change at Newcastle United. The club has already seen the sales of Anthony Gordon and Sandro Tonali, following the earlier sale of Alexander Isak. Additionally, there are strong links between Arsenal and Bruno Guimaraes, suggesting further squad turnover.

This period of upheaval at Newcastle United could either lead the club to try and retain promising young players like Hall, or it might prompt them to sell players to generate funds for a rebuild under the new manager. Manchester United are reportedly keen to capitalise on this uncertain situation.

Hall, who is under 21, has already made 102 appearances for Newcastle United since joining in 2023, initially on loan from Chelsea before making the move permanent in 2024. He has also earned four England caps and established himself in a starting role at the club. Despite a challenging 25/26 campaign that saw him miss out on Thomas Tuchel’s England squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, he is considered a promising talent.

Manchester United‘s technical director, Jason Wilcox, is understood to be a key figure driving the club’s interest in Hall. Wilcox reportedly admires Hall’s versatility, noting his ability to play both as a traditional full-back and an inverted defender.

The acquisition of a new left-back remains a high priority for Manchester United. The club is seeking a long-term replacement for Luke Shaw, who, despite completing a healthy 25/26 campaign and maintaining a high level of play, is reportedly lacking some of the speed and endurance that previously made him an effective overlapping wing-back for both club and country.

Currently, Harry Amass is the only natural left-back behind Shaw in the squad, with Patrick Dorgu seemingly transitioning into a more advanced winger role. This highlights Manchester United‘s need for defensive reinforcements in that position.

While Manchester United are reportedly prepared to make a concerted effort to sign Hall, who is valued at around £60m, they acknowledge that negotiations with Newcastle United may not be straightforward. The club is ready to make an opening move for the player.

In addition to Hall, Manchester United are also monitoring other options. Jorge Salinas, a 19-year-old talent from Racing Santander, has emerged as a leading alternative should a deal for Hall not materialise. Salinas gained recognition after starring for Spain in their victory at the UEFA European Under-19 Championship in Wales, where Manchester United scouts observed him on multiple occasions.

Salinas played a significant role in helping Racing Santander secure promotion by winning the Segunda Division title last season. However, competition for his signature is strong, with Barcelona reportedly having held talks and remaining favourites, though negotiations have stalled over the transfer fee. Racing Santander is seeking around €16million, while Barcelona has offered approximately €8million.

Atletico Madrid has also shown interest in Salinas, and Manchester United have now joined the pursuit after receiving positive scouting reports. Manchester United‘s recruitment staff believe Salinas could immediately step up to first-team football, leading to his rapid rise on their shortlist.

Furthermore, Barcelona left-back Alejandro Balde is also on Manchester United‘s radar. The club is monitoring Balde’s situation, as his long-term future at Camp Nou could become less certain if Barcelona successfully signs Salinas.

Despite exploring other options, Hall remains the primary target for Manchester United. With Wilcox advocating for the Newcastle United defender, the Old Trafford hierarchy is hopeful of securing one of their key targets before the transfer window closes.

Beyond defensive targets, Wilcox is also looking to strengthen Manchester United‘s attacking options. While Aston Villa‘s Ollie Watkins has been mentioned, reports suggest a deal for the 30-year-old would not be inexpensive, with a £40m bid potentially required. Manchester United have also been linked with Liam Delap, leading to a quick decision regarding renewed interest in the former Chelsea player.

The focus for Manchester United remains on Hall, with the club preparing to begin formal discussions.

Source: thebusbybabe.sbnation.com