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Manchester United earmark promising trio to strengthen problematic first XI position

Originally posted on We All Follow United
By Rohit Sarkar | Last updated Oct 4, 2025 9:15 AM ET

Manchester United shortlist three stars as they eye right-back options

Manchester United’s defensive inconsistency has put the spotlight on the right-back role. The club has struggled to find stability on that flank, and scouts are already searching for solutions. According to Fichajes, United are now targeting La Liga for reinforcements and have identified three players: Nahuel Molina of Atlético Madrid, Jon Aramburu of Real Sociedad, and Omar El Hilali of Espanyol.

The urgency comes from recognition that waiting until summer could inflate transfer costs. United want to act decisively in January, especially after recent weeks where weaknesses down the right have been exploited by opponents. The situation has made signing a right-back a top priority for the club’s hierarchy. While Diogo Dalot has often offered attacking width, the lack of defensive consistency in his performances has raised questions about depth and reliability in that position.

This is not the first challenge facing United, with other stories around the club — from the Sunderland boss preparing for Old Trafford and speaking about Ruben Amorim to the board pondering the cost of replacing Amorim — adding to the pressure. Against this backdrop, the pursuit of a reliable right-back feels like a natural step in the rebuild.

Who could fit United’s needs best?

From the three reported names, Nahuel Molina appears to be the most complete option. The Argentine defender has experience at both club and international levels with strong attacking instincts and solid defensive ability. His passing range and dribbling provide variety, though aerial duels remain a minor weakness. With Atlético Madrid keen on renewing his deal, signing him would likely prove difficult and expensive.

If Molina becomes unattainable, Jon Aramburu could represent a more realistic target. The Real Sociedad right-back has earned a reputation as a tough defender, strong in one-on-one duels and reliable in stopping opposition wingers. He still needs to improve his offensive output, but with coaching, he could develop into a rounded full-back. Financially, his lower release clause compared to Molina makes him a more achievable investment, though Sociedad are not eager to lose him.

Omar El Hilali offers another alternative. United may like his modest cost, but his lack of top-level exposure makes him a gamble. Ultimately, United must decide whether they want proven experience in Molina or long-term value in youth like Aramburu. Either way, the Red Devils have to solve the right-back issue, if the team hopes to restore balance and stability in the months ahead.

This article first appeared on We All Follow United and was syndicated with permission.

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