Paul Parker on Dorgu, Fernández, and Ferguson: Manchester United's Transfer Strategy

Here at bettingexpert, Devang Prasad sat down with old friend and Manchester United legend Paul Parker to discuss the latest transfer news linking United with a move for Danish left back Patrick Dorgu. United also seem to need reinforcements in the attacking areas and the news cycle suggests a Premier League striker is on the market. Is he the answer to some of United’s issues?

United’s Dorgu vs Fernandez Conundrum

At Manchester United, the transfer rumors are swirling, with the club reportedly working on a deal for U.S. Lecce’s 20-year-old left-back, Patrick Dorgu, ahead of the January transfer deadline. However, a recent bid for Dorgu was rejected by the French club, who are struggling in Serie A. United’s priority this transfer window seems to be bolstering the left-back position, especially after the injury setbacks to Tyrell Malacia and Luke Shaw. The versatile Diogo Dalot has had to step up, playing as a left wing-back more often than usual. Dorgu is seen as the ideal candidate to provide much-needed depth.

But former Manchester United player and current pundit Paul Parker believes United should consider a different option—Álvaro Fernández, a former United academy graduate who joined Benfica on loan in January 2023 and made his move permanent in the summer. While Fernandez remains a fallback option if the deal falls through, Parker feels he is in fact a smarter choice.

“I would rather United go for a player who has already had a taste of English football and the Premier League. Someone who has experience. United can’t afford mistakes in this window,” Parker explained.

Parker highlighted that Fernández, who was allowed to leave United under Erik ten Hag in favor of Luke Shaw and Malacia, could be bought back for around £16m. Despite not getting enough chances at Old Trafford, Fernández was deemed talented enough to feature for United.

“Fernández was good enough to play but they believed in Shaw and Malacia instead. He could easily come back and fill the void,” said Parker.

With injuries severely affecting Shaw and Malacia’s careers, bringing Fernández back would seem to be a logical move to reinforce a weakened squad. However, Parker admits the decision might ultimately rest on whether the young Spaniard is willing to return to a club beset by off-field issues.

“Fernández is the perfect player to step in, but it’s about whether he wants to return to a club with the issues they’ve got,” Parker added

Parker Urges United to Move for Evan Ferguson

On the attacking front, United has struggled with their options at centre-forward, with neither Rasmus Højlund nor Joshua Zirkzee fully claiming the number nine role under Amorim. Recent reports suggest Brighton is open to letting young striker Evan Ferguson leave the club on loan, which could be an opportunity for United to pounce.

Ferguson, who has started just twice in the Premier League this season due to a series of injuries, is recovering from an ankle injury and could return soon. His most recent appearance was as a substitute against West Ham in December. Parker is a fan of Ferguson’s potential and believes he could offer the right mix of technical ability and Premier League experience that United need.

“He had a good run under De Zerbi, but with the new manager, things have changed for him,” said Parker.

Despite some off-field issues according to Parker, he believes Ferguson’s experience at Brighton under both Graham Potter and Roberto De Zerbi would make him an ideal target for United.

“Ferguson has technical skills and know-how, and playing for Brighton in the Premier League has given him valuable education. United should look to grab him, even if it’s just until the end of the season. Højlund could learn from him, see what he’s doing, and grow his game,” Parker explained.