Luke Shaw’s Manchester United career might be on the verge of coming to an end. The left-back hasn’t been used by Jose Mourinho off late and questions have been raised over his decision. The English international has been ignored a number of times and probably, time has come to let him off the books.
According to reports, Newcastle United might try to grab the player in January transfer window. The Toon have been dealt a severe blow as both their left backs Paul Dummett and Massadio Haidara are currently sidelined with injuries.
Shaw has had very limited opportunities this season and with the World Cup ahead in the next year, he would like to rack up as many minutes as he can, to grab a place in Gareth Southgate’s World Cup squad.
The youngster has gone out of favour under Jose Mourinho, who has used Daley Blind and Ashley Young at that position. Shaw arrived at the Old Trafford back in 2014 for a sum of £30m as one of the most promising left backs but failed to make it to the next level.
He did show some encouraging signs in his initial days, but a horrific leg injury back in 2015 blocked his development. Since his leg break, the 22-year-old had a number of injuries which have unsettled his career.
A player like him would be a fit in any team and Benitez would love to have a pacey, attacking full-back in his side. There has been a lot of turmoil regarding Newcastle’s ownership in recent times but that hasn’t affected their performances as they have maintained a steady graph this season.
Mike Ashley has already listed the clubs for sale and it is being reported that potential new owner Amanda Staveley had a fruitful chat with the Magpies hierarchy and the gaffer is expected to receive a huge transfer kitty, should the deal go through.
Benitez failed to sign a left back in summer and couldn’t hide his frustration due to the lack of intent in the transfer window. If Newcastle keep hovering around the top six, injections of fresh talents could make them a potent force in the latter part of the season.
They are currently in the eighth position and could dethrone Liverpool from the sixth position with a win in the next match. So there are enough reasons why Benitez should prioritise the signing of Luke Shaw as soon as the transfer window opens. But is he the right man for the Magpies?
