Shaw’s United move Lukes in doubt

Manchester United’s plans to lure Luke Shaw to Old Trafford look shaky, despite news leaking that the Southampton board were informed of his wish to join the Red Devils after the last game of this club campaign.

Shaw’s stellar season culminated in an impressive game against his suitors on the final day, in which he ably contained and frustrated Adnan Januzaj, and subsequently asked to leave.

United, who are 6/1 to win the Premier League title next term, had already made a £27m bid for left back Shaw’s services, but it is believed that the Saints wished to clarify the future of then-manager Mauricio Pochettino before giving the green light.

As a Southampton youth team product, Shaw, now a fully-fledged England international and World Cup squad member, is one of their most prized assets. Having already lost star striker Rickie Lambert to Liverpool, amid the club’s aggressive bids for captain Adam Lallana, the Saints are reluctant to sell before a replacement manager is appointed.

Superstars Gareth Bale, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Theo Walcott have all departed the club for minimal fees in the last decade, much to the chagrin of fans. So, understandably, the South Coast side are holding out for a large sum.

Unfortunately for Shaw, United are not in the mood to waste time and money chasing unattainable targets, particularly after last term’s transfer debacle. The northwest side finished seventh in the Premier League after failing to adequately reinforce the squad, and failed with bids for Cesc Fabregas and Leighton Baines.

With Saints stalling, and a deal before the World Cup now looking unlikely, the Red Devils’ new manager Louis van Gaal seems to have turned his attentions elsewhere.

In what would be a shock move, United are being linked to a swoop for Spain international Jordi Alba. The Barcelona defender, previously of Valencia, was just a young boy in Barca’s academy when Van Gaal led the Catalan side.

Securing his signature would surely be a difficult task, but Van Gaal has reason to be confident of easing United’s transfer woes, due to his strong ties with his former La Masia graduates.

Whilst Red Devils fans will be pleased that the club appears to have a plan B this summer, Shaw and Southampton will be hoping it is all merely smoke and mirrors.