Man Utd dealt hammer blow in pursuit of 'untouchable' transfer target

Michael Carrick’s Manchester United are on the hunt for a left-back this summer (Picture: Getty)

Newcastle have reportedly ruled out a transfer move for Lewis Hall amid strong interest from Manchester United this summer.

Hall, 21, left Chelsea to join Newcastle in search of regular playing time – following an initial loan move – in 2024 and has since gone on to establish himself as one of the most sought-after left-backs in the English game.

Also comfortable operating in midfield, Hall’s versatility has proven invaluable over the course of his three seasons in the north east and he played a key role in the Magpies’ historic Carabao Cup triumph last year.

Hall continued his outstanding run of form into last season and there was some surprise as he missed out on a place in Thomas Tuchel’s 26-man squad for England’s World Cup campaign.

But while Tuchel opted to overlook Hall, it’s understood the full-back has remained firmly in the thoughts of the Premier League’s elite – and Manchester United are known to have been tracking his progress for some time.

Chelsea have also been tentatively linked with the player they sold only two years ago as they scour the transfer market for Marc Cucurella ‘s long-term successor at left-back.

Recent reports indicated that Hall would be ‘keen’ on the idea of swapping St James’ Park for Old Trafford to play under Michael Carrick. The recent departure of Eddie Howe – who shares an agent with the defender – only fuelled these rumours.

Hall is deemed ‘untouchable’ by Newcastle’s hierarchy (Picture: Getty)

The England international has three years remaining on his current deal at St James’ Park (Picture: Getty)

However, according to The i Paper, Newcastle’s hierarchy are ‘adamant’ that Hall is not for sale and there will be ‘no flexibility’ on their stance, despite the fact both Anthony Gordon and Sandro Tonali have been allowed to leave in the window.

Given the player’s age and contract situation, it’s claimed the Magpies view Hall as an ‘untouchable’ squad member and one who is likely to be an integral figure under incoming head coach Matthias Jaissle.

The Red Devils may therefore be forced to switch their attentions to potential alternatives at left-back, namely Arsenal’s Myles Lewis-Skelly and Racing Santander’s Jorge Salinas.

Racing Santander youngster Salinas has been identified as United’s ‘plan B’ (Picture: Getty)

Hall’s current contract with the Toon is not due to expire until June 2029.

Reports emanating out of Spain this week indicate that United have identified Salinas, 19, as their ‘plan B’ should their pursuit of Hall be doomed to failure.

United bosses are said to be ‘very serious’ about Salinas having watched over the teenager’s impressive performances at this year’s Under-19 European Championship.