It was not so long ago that Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag broached the topic of how Diogo Dalot was being overworked due to lack of competition for the right-back spot.
At that time, it seemed certain that the January transfer window would be used by the club to bring in a backup full-back after the Dutchman seemingly assured the exit of Aaron Wan-Bissaka.
The Ole Gunnar Solskjaer favourite had played only once prior to the World Cup, a four-minute cameo against Liverpool before a bout of mystery injuries forced him to remain out of action.
AWB’s struggles this season
But with Dalot returning from Qatar injured, the former Crystal Palace defender got his chance to shine as has grabbed those opportunities with both hands, and even managed to grab an acrobatic assist on his first start of this campaign.
With the Portuguese off injured once again against Charlton Athletic, Wan-Bissaka once again showed why he is considered one of the best defensive full-backs.
But the former Ajax boss has showed a preference for attacking full-backs and the Croydon-born star still looks awkward while going forward and does not pose the same threat as Dalot.
🚨 Manchester United have Kyle Walker-Peters on their shortlist of targets to replace Aaron Wan-Bissaka.
Chelsea are also interested in the Southampton full-back.
(Source: @alex_crook) pic.twitter.com/rCSGWotljR
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) January 11, 2023
And that is exactly why, despite coping well in Dalot’s absence, Ten Hag remains open to letting the Englishman leave should he be able to bring in a replacement.
So far, the Eagles have shown interest in reacquiring the £45million man on loan while Wolverhampton Wanderers are also actively trying to get their man this January.
If Wan-Bissaka were to leave, TalkSPORT have revealed that Southampton contract rebel Kyle Walker-Peters could be an option to come in and replace him.
Walker-Peters to replace outgoing AWB
“Walker-Peters, 25, is pushing for a move away from the south coast after stalling on signing a new deal,” the report mentioned.
“United have shortlisted Walker-Peters as a possible replacement for Aaron Wan-Bissaka, who could be allowed to leave this month.”
However, United are not the only ones keeping a tab on the England international. Chelsea are also on the lookout for a replacement right-back due to Reece James’ recent injury problems. Former club Tottenham Hotspur also remain keen.
Despite the Saints’ struggles this season, the 25-year-old has enhanced his reputation with his battling displays and with Southampton seemingly on their way down, Walker-Peters is actively looking for a way out.
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