According to Football Insider, Manchester United have turned their attention to signing Roma defender Wesley, who is also on the radar of Arsenal and Newcastle United.
The Red Devils were heavily fancied to sign a new left-back last summer, but they were unable to find a suitable solution before the transfer deadline. This has proved costly during the ongoing campaign with Luke Shaw and Patrick Dorgu currently injured.
United could address the concern at the turn of the year, and Football Insider claim that the club could seek a versatile option, who can also operate as a right-back, given Diogo Dalot and Noussair Mazraoui will enter the last year of their contracts next July.
Wesley, who has primarily played as a wing-back for Roma, has emerged as a ‘clear target’ for the Red Devils, but they are not alone in the race with Arsenal and Newcastle United also keen on landing the highly-rated Brazil international.
A winter deal could, however, prove prohibitive for Man United, given Roma are already holding out for £50 million for Wesley, and his valuation could rise even higher. Still, the club are continuing to monitor his progress ahead of January.
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The 23-year-old joined Roma from Flamengo in the summer of 2025 amid immense competition. He had a fine debut campaign with the Giallorossi with seven goal contributions in 39 appearances, primarily operating from the left wing-back position.
The Brazilian has continued to dazzle for the Serie A giants this campaign. He has just one assist in eight outings but has impressed with his defensive contributions. He has won an average of 4 duels per game with 4 recoveries and 2 successful tackles.
United are yearning for a full-back, who can create goalscoring chances while offering defensive solidity. Dalot and Mazraoui have had their moments at right-back, but the duo have had plenty of off-days during their careers with the Red Devils.
Shaw is undoubtedly one of England’s best left-backs over the past decade, but injuries have hampered him. At 31, he is no longer in his prime and could be permitted to move on a free transfer when his contract concludes next summer.
United may not be in a position to spend £50m on Wesley in January but that could certainly happen when the season ends. Arsenal and Newcastle are admirers too and they may likewise wait until the summer, given Roma could resist a mid-season sale too.
