Overview
- Reports this week say Manchester United have decided not to pursue free agent David Alaba, with the Manchester Evening News’ Tyrone Marshall cited as the source of the club’s stance.
- United’s caution is linked to Alaba’s recent injury record, including a torn ACL in December 2023 and reporting that he missed a large number of matches across recent seasons.
- Ineos’ recruitment model favouring younger players with resale or long-term value is a central reason for rejecting older, higher-wage free agents like Alaba.
- Summer spending of about £150m on midfield recruits and the club’s refusal to pay north of £60m for Lewis Hall left Luke Shaw as the only recognised natural left-back, creating short-term depth risk.
- The decision is not presented as absolute: United could reconsider a January signing or a short-term option only if Shaw suffers a major injury or squad circumstances change, while Alaba remains available and linked to other clubs.