Manchester United spent heavily in midfield during the summer transfer window, splashing out to bring in fresh options through the middle of the park.

But for all that outlay, one position they failed to strengthen was left-back, despite links with a host of options across Europe, such as Spanish youngster Jorge Salinas, who ultimately stayed put at Racing de Santander.

United were long connected with Lewis Hall as a potential solution, but Newcastle have now moved to tie their man down to a new contract, effectively ending any hopes of a deal materialising unless INEOS part ways with a massive fee.

Indeed, with Hall now set to commit his long-term future to St James' Park, Craig Hope reports there will be no release clause inserted in the deal, and United have been forced to explore alternatives.

David Ornstein has suggested that Bournemouth's Adrien Truffert could be one to watch, speaking on The Athletic Podcast: "Not many clubs recruited in that left-back position, which means there's going to be a need on the horizon.

"Truffert has a really good age profile. He's the sort of player that you could see moving. Manchester United were one team that we talked about with left-backs over the window, and there will be more. It is going to be an interesting one.

"I'm hearing a value of around £60m and that there's potentially a deal to be done next summer. I could see him being capable of playing for one of the biggest clubs."

Football FanCast sources understand United are indeed preparing to open talks with the Cherries next year, with the Old Trafford hierarchy actually plotting a double move from the South coast to strengthen two areas they left untouched this summer.

As well as the 24 year-old Frenchman, United are also weighing up a move for Bournemouth teammate Rayan, with the versatile forward valued at around £90m.

A swoop for the pair could cost in the region of £150m, representing another significant outlay for two players who have risen to stardom quite quickly since arriving in England.

Liverpool boss Andoni Iraola has previously described Truffert as "exceptional" in how he's adapted to the Premier League, while Carlo Ancelotti has been similarly effusive over Rayan, saying: "Nobody knows the level he can reach."

Truffert has been an ever-present down the left for Bournemouth, chipping in with a steady stream of assists from full-back, while Rayan's return since joining in January is impressive for a 20 year-old whose best trait may just be his work ethic and relentless pressing.

With United still searching for the finished product defensively and going through a rebuild under Michael Carrick, a double raid on the south coast club would represent a bold statement of intent - even if it means waiting until next summer to get the deal done.