Tyrell Malacia's arrival at Manchester United may give Luke Shaw the competition he needs to improve but should spell the end of Alex Telles' time at Old Trafford.
That's according to former United star Lee Sharpe, who likes the look of his former club's first signing of the summer. After a long and frustrating wait, Erik ten Hag finally made his first addition to his new squad on Tuesday as the signing of Malacia was confirmed.
United have secured the signing of the 22-year-old left-back on a four-year deal, with the option of a further 12 months, after agreeing a €15million deal, with a potential €2million in further add-ons. Malacia was at Carrington on Sunday and Monday to complete his medical and has completed his move from Feyenoord in time to be included in the club's pre-season tour.
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United were looking to target a new full-back this summer but it was the right side, rather than the left, that had been earmarked for improvement as Aaron Wan-Bissaka had been deemed surplus to requirements by Ten Heg while the opposite flank is relatively well-stocked by Shaw and Telles.
The signing of Malacia has strengthened the position even further and Sharpe believes that the pressure the Dutchman will bring could inspire Shaw to get back to his best. After an excellent campaign and an even better European Championship in 2020/2021, Shaw's form dipped considerably last season.
“I think Luke Shaw, on his day, is probably one of the best left-backs in the world," Sharpe told bettors.ng. "I think the problem for Luke Shaw is that he’s not really had a challenge at left-back.
"This new signing (Malacia) might just do that." He (Malacia) looks highly talented, really quick, really good defender, loves going forward.
"But like I said, Luke Shaw is one of the best left-backs in the world on his day. If he can have a good pre-season, and get himself properly fit and be up for the challenge, I still think he’ll be the no.1 left-back.”
Sharpe doesn't think Malacia's signing will be quite as good for Telles, who struggled whenever he was given a chance in the side last season. He added: “To surmise, Telles will be looking for a trip out on loan or maybe a sale to somewhere else because I think he will go to third in the pecking order.”
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