Manchester United are again watching Girona’s La Liga left-back Miguel Gutierrez seven years after Jose Mourinho tried and failed to lure the Spaniard to the Premier League giants.
Without the injuries which have largely derailed Erik ten Hag’s second season in charge at Old Trafford, a new left-back might not have been required during the club’s first summer under Ineos control.
But considering that Tyrell Malacia has not made a single appearance throughout 2023/24 – and with Luke Shaw potentially out until next term – the reported interest in one Miguel Gutierrez makes a lot more sense than it otherwise might have.
According to Mundo Deportivo, Manchester United have been scouting the Spaniard for months now. Gutierrez, who joined La Liga’s surprise packages Girona from Real Madrid, has been one of the season’s breakout talents. A major factor behind his club’s emergence as dark horses for the title.
“Miguel has been incredible,” says Girona boss Michel.
Manchester United eye Miguel Gutierrez
With six assists to his name, Gutierrez is frequently lauded for his attacking instincts. Michel, however, is urging supporters not to sleep on his defensive talents, the 22-year-old shutting down the rapid Jorge de Frutos while providing the game-winning contribution during last week’s 1-0 win over Rayo Vallecano.
“We have placed him further back to control Jorge de Frutos’ speed,” Michel adds. “He has won 90 per cent of the duels and also provided the assist for the goal. He suffered (in a recent defeat to Athletic Bilboa) and (has now) vindicated himself, which is what we wanted to see.”
Jose Mourinho wanted him in 2017
That personality, character and those qualities at both ends of the pitch would come in very handy should Gutierrez make the move to Old Trafford.
Man United, meanwhile, appear to be long-time admirers.
According to Defensa Central, former Los Blancos boss Jose Mourinho attempted to bring the Madrid-born speed-machine to Manchester back in 2017. Seven years on, Gutierrez would arrive not as a teenager for the academy but as a player looking to oust Shaw from the first-team picture.
Estadio Deportivo report that Gutierrez has a £30 million release clause in his Girona contract.
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