Omar El Hilali: Man United planning January raid on Espanyol for defensive gem | OneFootball

Ruben Amorim is yet to find his preferred right wing-back at Manchester United.

The wing-backs are key for Amorim, who relies on them to influence the play in all thirds of the pitch. They are responsible for providing width higher up the field, creating numerical overloads in midfield, and supporting the centre-backs in their defensive third.

As such, it wasn’t a surprise when the ex-Sporting CP manager prioritised the signing of Patrick Dorgu straight after taking over the helm at Old Trafford.

Manchester United want to sign a new right wing-back

The former Lecce winger has cemented his place on the left flank under Amorim. However, there is a degree of uncertainty on the opposite wing.

Noussair Mazraoui doesn’t possess an engine to move up and down the pitch, and Amad Diallo lacks defensive acumen to play that role.

Diogo Dalot, meanwhile, has been a liability in and out of possession ever since Amorim’s arrival.

A report in Spain suggests United have made it a priority to sign a new right wing-back in January.

Manchester United keen on El Hilali

According to Fichajes, the Red Devils are considering bringing in a new player in the position in January, and have drawn up a three-man shortlist.

Atletico Madrid star Nahuel Molina, Real Sociedad’s Jon Aramburu, and Espanyol youngster Omar El Hilali are all on the Premier League giants’ radar.

El Hilali, 22, has emerged as one of La Liga’s most promising full-backs, impressing with his tackling, recovery pace, ball-carrying, and crossing.

Mazraoui’s fellow countryman has made seven appearances in La Liga this season, and has an assist to his name.

Espanyol want to keep hold of their Moroccan prodigy, who is tied to the Catalan outfit until the summer of 2027.

However, El Hilali’s contract includes a release clause worth €25 million, a figure that is unlikely to fend off interest from United, who agreed to pay €30m plus a possible €5m in add-ons to land Dorgu in the last winter transfer window.

Featured image Rafa Babot via Getty Images

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