Manchester United have reportedly set their sight on Celtic defender Kieran Tierney as Jose Mourinho is keen to address left-back woes
According to a report by The Mirror, Kieran Tierney could be on his way to join Manchester United since Jose Mourinho is understood to have identified the youngster as a priority target. The left-back has been one problem area for the Red Devils, despite putting up strong performances in the new season so far.
The Scotland international has been touted as one of the most promising young talents in Europe, and United are believed to have sent scouts to take note of his performances. Considering his display against England earlier this month, the reports are likely to be positive.
Tierney has enjoyed stunning progress in the last couple of seasons as he won the PFA Scotland Young Player of the Season award last year and also starred in his Scotland debut last March. In fact, this year he has been a constant on manager Brendan Rodgers’ team-sheet when fit, getting a starting role ahead of Celtic hero Emilio Izaguirre.
However, it was his performance in the 3-3 Champions League draw with Manchester City that caught the eye. Tierney was truly a force to be reckoned with, as he fought hard and resisted a strong attack like that of Pep Guardiola’s front line.
Mourinho does need a new left-back since Luke Shaw’s Manchester United future seems rather uncertain and he will be aware of the fact that the club are seeking replacements. A player who has blossomed under the watchful eye of Brendan Rodgers only seems ideal as an alternative to Shaw.
The Portuguese boss has been pretty vocal about his doubts regarding the former Southampton ace last season and has also publicly criticized Shaw on several occasions for overplaying his injuries. Shaw played just 70 minutes of Premier League football since losing his place at the end of October, with only a couple of other cup appearances.
Since there are significant question marks over Luke Shaw’s future at the club, Mourinho is open to the option of bringing in a long-term solution to his left-back position for which Tierney seems like a strong candidate. Thus, a summer move could be in the offing.