Manchester United are considering a U-turn on their Sergio Reguilon stance amid an impressive start to life at Old Trafford, according to reports. Reguilon has started three consecutive games since joining on a season-long loan from Tottenham Hotspur on transfer deadline day.
Erik ten Hag recruited the 26-year-old as an emergency left-back after injuries to Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia worsened his early-season defensive woes.
The latter pair’s continued absence has seen Reguilon play a prominent role, and he has left many fans surprised after his Tottenham career plunged into mediocrity under Antonio Conte.
Reguilon was United’s best player on his debut – a 3-1 defeat to Brighton and Hove Albion – and was also a constant attacking threat in the 4-3 loss at Bayern Munich in midweek.
He also started Saturday’s 1-0 win over Burnley at Turf Moor before Ten Hag revealed that he had requested to play despite falling ill in the build-up to the crucial match.
The Spaniard’s performances on the pitch and attitude off it have reportedly earned the plaudits of many figures behind the scenes.
According to Spanish outlet AS, Reguilon is on the right track to securing a permanent transfer to United at the end of the season.
The Red Devils No 15 is said to be winning over many members of the club’s hierarchy after arriving in M16 with limited expectations.
Fabrizio Romano adds that United staff are delighted with Reguilon’s early signs and how he has carried himself on and off the pitch.
The Spurs loanee’s attitude and understanding of Ten Hag’s demands, in particular, have earned him credit, cementing his spot at left-back.
United’s alleged stance on Reguilon highlights his impressive start at the club following the circumstances of his late arrival earlier this month.
Ten Hag viewed him as a short-term fix in the hope that Shaw and Malacia would have returned to full fitness before the January transfer window.
But even with the duo’s recovery schedules set to facilitate a return to action before the new year, Reguilon’s form has seemingly prompted a transfer rethink.
It could spell bad news for Malacia, who became Ten Hag’s first signing as United boss last summer in a £15million deal from Feyenoord.
He has acted as Shaw’s backup since landing in England, but Reguilon’s experience could act against him once he returns to the fray.
Reguilon is expected to be fit for Tuesday’s Carabao Cup third-round clash against Crystal Palace despite his withdrawal against Burnley.
