Setback for Man Utd, key transfer target to stay with Bournemouth in January

Manchester United have suffered a big setback in their bid to strengthen the squad in January.

Bournemouth left-back Milos Kerkez was linked with a move to Man United.

However, Sky Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg has revealed that Kerkez will remain at Bournemouth. A summer transfer is likely.

The Red Devils are actively searching for a left wing-back, with Luke Shaw sidelined and uncertainty surrounding Tyrell Malacia’s future.

Malacia made his return to action late last year after spending 17 months on the sidelines due to a serious knee injury.

The Netherlands international has delivered underwhelming performances at left wing-back and could be sent on loan this month.

Diogo Dalot has stepped into the role, but he is more naturally suited to play on the opposite side of the pitch.

While Alphonso Davies and Nuno Mendes were also considered alternatives, it appears they are on the verge of extending their contracts with their respective clubs.

Kerkez would have been a strong acquisition for the Red Devils, perfectly fitting into their 3-4-2-1 formation.

The 21-year-old shone in Bournemouth’s 3-0 victory over United in December.

He is relentless in his runs up and down the flank, contributing to both attack and defence.

Kerkez scored a stunning goal in the 4-1 victory over Newcastle United last Saturday. The youngster made a driving run into the box and fired his strike into the far corner.

Although still in the early stages of his career, Kerkez shows great promise but needs to continue developing his overall game.

United are closing in on signing Lecce’s Patrick Dorgu, with his agent spotted in Manchester on Monday, fuelling speculation of a potential move.