Antony and Marco Asensio trait highlights Manchester United summer transfer need

Erik ten Hag is linked with a number of his former players at the moment, with Frenkie de Jong and Antony both tipped for summer moves to Manchester United. The latter in particular has just spent the year under him at Ajax, and he seems to be progressing towards a high level.

Aged just 21, the Brazilian scored eight goals while registering four assists in the Eredivisie this season. He is regarded as one of the biggest prospects in Holland, and the Reds are rumoured to be interested in him.

On top of his obvious ability and potential, United have another reason to target a player like Antony. Simply put, Ten Hag is lacking left-footed options in the final third.

READ MORE: Man United exploring Frenkie de Jong alternatives as Ryan Gravenberch details transfer talks

Upon inspection of the squad at Old Trafford, there are just three prominent left-footed players at the club right now, and two of them are left backs: Luke Shaw, Alex Telles and Fred. Juan Mata and Nemanja Matic were previously included as two more, but both have left the club this summer in search of new challenges, with the latter agreeing to join Jose Mourinho at AS Roma this week.

The attacking department in particular is lacking. Cristiano Ronaldo, Jadon Sancho, Marcus Rashford, Bruno Fernandes, Anthony Elanga and Donny van de Beek are all right-footed. Amad Diallo does break the mould by preferring his left, but the Ivorian youngster is just 19 years old and seems unlikely to become a starter at under Ten Hag in the near future.

The true importance of footedness is open to debate but different options are generally desired, which perhaps offers an insight into why Antony is deemed to be one of the club's primary targets.

Left-footed offensive