In a recent report, The Shields Gazette has stated that Newcastle United have ‘agreed the framework’ for a move to sign Manchester United defender Brandon Williams on loan during this January transfer window. It is understood that the Magpies have beaten competition from Southampton by coming to an agreement, in principle, to land the Red Devils full-back on a loan deal this month (via The Shields Gazette).
Williams’ Fall From Grace At The Theatre Of Dreams
The Crumpsall-born defensive ace has found game time hard to come by at Old Trafford this season as he has struggled to feature for Ole Gunnar Solskajer’s first-team so far. Williams has been involved in just five matches for the Mancunian outfit this term, picking up one assist and two yellow cards across all competitions.
The 20-year-old has failed to get into the Man United first-team following the arrival of Alex Telles last summer and the recent form of Luke Shaw. However, he had a terrific time in the previous campaign when he made 36 appearances for the Red Devils, scoring one goal and securing two assists on all fronts.
Williams gave a good account of himself by averaging 1.2 tackles, 0.9 interceptions, 0.8 clearances, 0.8 key passes and 0.9 dribbles per game in the 2019-20 Premier League season. He even distributed the ball immaculately from the left flank after completing 84.6% of his attempted passes in the top tier of English football (stats via whoscored).
What Does The England U-21 International Bring To St. James’ Park?
Williams boasts decent pace under his belt and can make some energetic runs down the left flank. He has proven himself to be a capable defender inside his half as he is not shy of working his socks off for the benefit of his side.
The English left-back can get himself to the byline and has got the ability to whip in some inviting crosses into the opponent’s penalty area. However, he is still quite raw and would need time to cut out some of the mistakes he is prone to making on the defensive end of the pitch.
Currently, the Magpies need to add more competition for Jamal Lewis who has struggled to be consistent with his contributions at left-back this season. Williams will undeniably offer some healthy competition for the Newcastle full-back in the race to earn a regular starting spot in Steve Bruce’s first-team.
A loan move to Tyneside could also help Williams get some valuable experience so that he can return to Old Trafford as a far better version of himself at the end of this campaign. All in all, Bruce will do well to get a deal done to bring the English prospect to St. James’ Park during this winter transfer period.
