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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
Sport
Samuel Luckhurst

Manchester United make decision on Ethan Laird

Manchester United right-back Ethan Laird is set to join Watford on a season-long loan.

It is understood Laird, 20, has agreed to embark on a third Championship loan after spells at Swansea and Bournemouth last season.

Laird's move is expected to go through once United's pre-season schedule concludes with the visit of Rayo Vallecano at Old Trafford on Sunday.

Also read: Playing Ronaldo vs Rayo Vallecano could have an impact at United

Watford begin their season against Sheffield United at Vicarage Road on Monday night.

The imminent departure of Laird does not necessarily secure Aaron Wan-Bissaka's future at United as the club are eager to shift the right-back.

United have received more enquiries for fellow right-back Diogo Dalot over the last year but informed interested clubs the only right-back they are prepared to negotiate for is Wan-Bissaka.

Dalot has ousted Wan-Bissaka as United's first choice right-back and the former Crystal Palace defender has failed to impress in any of Erik ten Hag's five matches in charge.

United are open to recruiting a right-back but their defensive department is so bloated Ten Hag could field four separate back fours.

The club were spurred into moving for left-back Tyrell Malacia and centre-back Lisandro Martinez amid interest from other clubs.

Centre-backs Eric Bailly, Phil Jones and Axel Tuanzebe, as well as full-backs Wan-Bissaka, Brandon Williams and Alex Telles are all available for transfer.

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