Manchester United chase Max Aarons

Manchester United are considering a move for a right-back when the January transfer window opens, according to the Daily Mail.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer wants competition for Aaron Wan-Bissaka, who has struggled since his arrival from Crystal Palace after what was a promising start to his career. While he had impressed in defence, his attacking play continues to be laborious and he has been more exposed defensively, though it does not help that he plays with a bunch of clown in the rest of the backline.

Nevertheless, given Harry Maguire looks set to keep his place in the middle of defence, Wan-Bissaka could be the next player to be replaced.

One target is Kieran Trippier of Atletico Madrid. The 30-year-old England international has received a 10-week ban for controvening betting regulations, and while he would be able to feature before the end of the season, he would still miss a significant chunk of the remainder of the matches to play - unless a new lockdown comes into play in Britain given the alarming rise of coronavirus infections in recent weeks.

The other option is Norwich City’s Max Aarons, the 20-year-old right back. He was one of the club’s most impressive performers last season when they were relegated from the Premier League, but he has continued to impress in the Championship.

Given the impact of the coronavirus, both Atletico and Norwich City would presumably be willing to do business at the right price for Trippier and Aarons respectively. Any deal might depend on United shifting some of their deadwood, including central defenders Phil Jones and Marcos Rojo, who continue to be linked with a move away from Old Trafford.

United next play Aston Villa in the Premier League, on Friday, though it remains to be seen how long professional football will be allowed to continue.