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A glance at Luke Shaw’s injury record explains why the likely lack of recruitment at left-back will prompt concern from United’s fanbase.

Shaw started all 38 Premier League games last season and, when fit, can be a massive asset to the team; his understanding with the returning Marcus Rashford is another positive.

But in a season with Champions League football, relying on a player whose long United career has been plagued by availability problems is a risk. Some would also make the case that, at 31, it is time for United to move on from Shaw.

The ideal target was Newcastle United’s Lewis Hall, who at 21 could well have been Shaw’s immediate replacement rather than his backup. Newcastle have stood firm and Hall has remained at St James’ Park — but the situation could be explored again next summer, when Shaw’s contract expires.

A loan deal, such as for Barcelona’s Balde, would have provided cover until that opportunity arose to sign a long-term successor. For now, though, United will hope Shaw can keep up the durability he showed last season.

The only other outright left-back in the squad is 19-year-old Amass, who made a handful of first-team appearances in 2024-25 and spent last season on loan at Sheffield Wednesday and Norwich City.

Who Michael Carrick prefers as Shaw’s deputy remains to be seen.