Paul Scholes Urges Manchester United to Sign Lewis Hall Amid Luke Shaw’s Defensive Struggles

Paul Scholes, the legendary Manchester United midfielder, has urged his former club to consider a late move for Newcastle United's promising defender Lewis Hall. This comes after watching Luke Shaw face difficulties in the Premier League opener.

Defensive Issues Highlighted After Ipswich Win

Despite Manchester United’s impressive 5-2 victory against Ipswich Town at Old Trafford, Scholes voiced concerns over their defensive performance. Speaking on The Good, The Bad & The Football podcast, he was straightforward about the team’s weaknesses.

"I think United would have taken going 1-0 down, the way they played in the first half. It could have been two or three," Scholes said. "What we saw sums up what you’re going to get from United. They could have been two or three down but also, you look at the second half, and they were devastating."

Price Tag and Newcastle’s Stance

Lewis Hall has long been on Manchester United's radar, but Newcastle have held firm in keeping their 21-year-old defender. Sources suggest that a bid of around £75 million might prompt the Magpies to reconsider.

Scholes believes Shaw’s recent struggles, particularly against Ipswich winger Abdul Fatawu, should push manager Michael Carrick to act swiftly. He added, "That will have been going on for months, not just the last couple of days. Shaw getting done yesterday like he did might make Michael say, ‘We need him.’ And you think Hall might be the most doable option out there and available."

Rio Ferdinand Offers Support for Shaw

In contrast, former United defender Rio Ferdinand has defended Shaw’s performances. Acknowledging the left-back had an off day, Ferdinand insists Shaw remains one of United’s most reliable players over the past year.

"Some fans were saying, ‘Shaw, get rid!’ But Shaw has been one of our most consistent performers," Ferdinand said on his YouTube channel. "Go and get a left-back we want to bed in over time to replace someone like Shaw. Do you think you’ll find someone ready immediately?"

Manchester United Exploring Other Left-Back Options

With the transfer window closing soon, United are reportedly considering alternatives if a move for Hall proves too expensive. The club has scouted several candidates across Europe including:

• Ferdi Kadioglu (Brighton)
• Ian Maatsen (Aston Villa)
• Jorge Salinas (Racing Santander)

A loan deal might be the most feasible option given the significant spending on midfield reinforcements earlier this summer.

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