Liverpool is close to signing a PSG player, but M. United interferes and could ruin the deal

Manchester United could make a splash in the transfer market by taking an interest in a player who was once linked with Liverpool as a possible long-term successor to Andy Robertson. According to sources in France, United have submitted a bid for Paris Saint-Germain left-back Nuno Mendes.

Mendes: a sought-after talent:

The 22-year-old defender is under contract with PSG until 2026, but negotiations for a possible extension have stalled. RMC Sport reported that United have made an "offer" for Mendes, although the details of the proposal are unclear. The Portuguese international is regarded as one of the most promising young full-backs in Europe, and United's interest underlines their intention to strengthen their defence.

Liverpool's past interest:

Liverpool had previously shown interest in Mendes as a potential long-term alternative to Robertson. The Reds reportedly rejected a £22.5m ($28.2m) bid when Mendes was 18 and playing for Sporting Lisbon. According to Goal, Liverpool made a significant bid for Mendes in the summer of 2020, but it was quickly rejected by the Portuguese club. At the time, Liverpool were looking for a left-back to support Robertson, and after their pursuit of Mendes failed, they opted to sign Kostas Tsimikas.

To Liverpool's further disappointment, Mendes signed a long-term contract extension with Sporting at the end of 2020, including a €70m (£63m/$79.2m) buyout clause. He was subsequently loaned out to PSG in the summer of 2021 before being signed permanently by the French club in 2022.

United looking for solutions at left-back:

While Liverpool have not shown renewed interest in Mendes, United could take the opportunity. Luke Shaw remains United's main option at left-back, but his fitness problems and inconsistency have led Erik ten Hag to look for reinforcements. Tyrell Malacia appears to have lost the manager's confidence, being substituted at half-time in three of his four starts since his return from a knee injury that kept him out for 550 days. He was even left out of the team in United's 2-0 defeat to Wolves on Boxing Day.

With a lack of options, Ten Hag has been forced to use Diogo Dalot at left-back, despite it not being his natural position. Clearly, this is an area that United need to strengthen.

In summary:

Manchester United have submitted a bid for PSG left-back Nuno Mendes.

Mendes was previously targeted by Liverpool as a possible successor to Robertson.

United are looking to strengthen their left-back position due to Shaw's fitness problems and inconsistency and a lack of confidence in Malacia.

Mendes' potential arrival at United could thwart any future interest from Liverpool.

Implications:

Manchester United's interest in Nuno Mendes adds a new chapter to the rivalry between the two clubs. While Liverpool no longer appear to be actively pursuing the player, the possibility of him ending up at Old Trafford could lead to some frustration at Anfield. For United, the addition of Mendes would mean a significant reinforcement for their defence, solving a problem that has persisted throughout the season. Mendes' contractual situation at PSG and United's offer will be decisive in the outcome of this transfer story.