Man Utd targeting Myles Lewis‑Skelly could unsettle seven Red Devils

Manchester United are reportedly close to signing 19‑year‑old Arsenal starlet Myles Lewis‑Skelly, a move that could spell trouble for seven current Red Devils. The versatile left‑back and central‑midfield option has been placed on Arsenal’s transfer list after falling out of favour under Mikel Arteta last season.

Potential fallout for United squad

Arsenal have valued Lewis‑Skelly at around £45 million and are prepared to cash in as they look to recoup part of the £75 million spent on Bruno Guimaraes. Both United and Chelsea have been offered the player, and the club’s senior Sports writer Harry Brent noted the interest in his recent article dated Aug 13, 2026.

United, under Michael Carrick, are actively searching for a new midfielder and left‑back after their initial target Lewis Hall was blocked by Newcastle. The club’s pursuit of Lewis‑Skelly therefore represents a shift in their recruitment strategy.

Luke Shaw, whose contract expires next year, could see his role reduced to a backup position despite playing all 38 Premier League matches last season. The arrival of Lewis‑Skelly would likely push the 31‑year‑old into a secondary role at left‑back.

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Denmark international Patrick Dorgu may also see his minutes dwindle. The 21‑year‑old joined United from Lecce as a wing‑back under Ruben Amorim, but Carrick now uses him primarily on the left wing, leaving him vulnerable to competition from the new signing.

Kobbie Mainoo, who impressed in central midfield last season, faces a direct challenge from Lewis‑Skelly, whose recent performances in that role at Arsenal were highly praised. Their similar profiles mean Mainoo could once again be fighting for a starting spot.

Uruguayan midfielder Manuel Ugarte, still recovering from a serious knee injury sustained at the World Cup, could be further marginalized. United have already added Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans to the midfield, and Lewis‑Skelly would add yet another option.

Right‑back Diogo Dalot, a Portugal international, may also see his opportunities limited, especially with the added competition from Lewis‑Skelly and the established left‑back Luke Shaw. Young prospects Diego Leon and Harry Amass could find their pathway to the first team considerably harder.