Manchester United turn down Southampton loan offer for defender

I would’ve thought a loan move for Brandon Williams was on the cards this month to try ensure he gets enough playing time between now and the end of the season, but it sounds like Ole Gunnar Solskjaer wants to keep the young full-back at Old Trafford.

The arrival of Brazil international Alex Telles from FC Porto pushed Brandon Williams further down the pecking order and his starts this season have been limited to the EFL Cup.

Williams’ preferred role is right back, however, but that hasn’t stopped Manchester United seeking a new addition in that department if you believe what’s been reported by the Manchester Evening News.

Maybe Solskjaer plans to hold back on signing a new right-back in January to give Williams a chance to stake a claim in the role for the remainder of the season? I don’t think he will be starting tonight’s EFL Cup semi-final against Man City, though.

But why has Solskjaer opted for Timothy Fosu-Mensah, Axel Tuanzebe or even Victor Lindelof at right-back in games when Williams has been available? We all know it’s going to be a long season with fixture congestion, so every member of the squad will need to be ready at all times.

According to the Telegraph, Manchester United have turned down a loan move from Southampton because Solskjaer wants to keep Williams at Old Trafford.

“Manchester United have rebuffed an initial approach from Southampton to loan Brandon Williams, with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer admitting he will not be pushing any of his fringe players out of the door this month given the importance of maintaining a big squad,” reporter James Ducker writes.

“United have not completely discounted the idea of allowing a player or two to leave on loan in the winter window.

“But Solskjaer believes having a big squad will be more important than ever this season given that the congested schedule brought about by the Covid-19 crisis has increased the threat of injuries and fatigue and feels he is already reaping the benefits of regular rotation.”

However,  a recent report from the Shields Gazette claims the Southampton target is nearing a move to Newcastle United on loan.

We’ll keep an eye on any updates but Ducker is reliable when it comes to MUFC news.

Read more: Kingsley Coman reveals response to Manchester United transfer interest

More Stories Brandon Williams Southampton