Man Utd's next prodigy after Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo can replace key star

Manchester United will sign a new left-back this summer after Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia’s injury-stricken seasons, according to reports. However, the Red Devils’ potential next prodigy could be the solution as one of the club’s latest highly-anticipated academy breakthroughs.

Shaw was limited to just 15 appearances in all competitions this term, while Malacia missed the entire campaign through an initial pre-season injury.

It left Erik ten Hag having to call on multiple players, including Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Sofyan Amrabat and Antony, to cover at left-back.

That, in turn, contributed to United’s disastrous season before they salvaged it by lifting their 13th FA Cup after beating Manchester City on Saturday.

And it’s an area the club will reportedly address in INEOS’ first summer transfer window in charge of football operations, leaving Shaw and Malacia’s futures uncertain.

But Ten Hag, or whoever is in charge, will take a closer look at a selection of young players during pre-season training and on the tour of the United States.

Harry Amass should be among the starlets involved after the 17-year-old left-back featured in seven senior squads during the 2023/24 season.

He was strongly in contention to become United’s 250th academy graduate before U18 team-mate Ethan Wheatley picked up that honour.

Amass is widely expected to make his breakthrough next term, especially due to the Red Devils’ involvement in the Europa League, which will involve eight group-stage games rather than six.

If the teenager, who joined from Watford last summer, convinces the club he’s ready to make the step up in pre-season, he could serve as Shaw’s natural successor.

He most recently wowed viewers with his performance in England U17’s 3-1 victory against Spain on Monday, dazzling down the left flank.

A highlights compilation left many United fans tipping him as the next long-term left-back at Old Trafford, a promotion that could feasibly commence as early as this summer.

Ten Hag remaining in charge of United next season could boost Amass’ chances of becoming a full-time member of the first team.

When the Dutchman arrived in 2022, he explained that he wanted to permanently promote at least one academy player every season.

Alejandro Garnacho made the full-time step up in the 2022/23 campaign. In this season just gone, Kobbie Mainoo’s emergence was the shining light for large sections.

It could soon be Amass’ turn, and his promotion could be fast-tracked if Shaw and Malacia’s injury issues persist.