Manchester United made major changes to their squad during the summer transfer window after returning to the Champions League.
The Red Devils spent £155 million on new signings, with Carlos Baleba, Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans strengthening their midfield.
However, United did not strengthen every position during the window. They failed to bring in another left-back to provide additional competition.
That decision has become particularly important because Luke Shaw has entered the final year of his Manchester United contract.
Shaw enjoyed an impressive 2025/26 campaign and played in every Premier League match for the first time in his career.
His availability provided defensive stability under Michael Carrick, while United continued to view him as their starting left-back.
However, Manchester United were initially expected to allow Shaw to leave when his contract expires next summer.
That position has now changed, with the club making a major U-turn regarding the 31-year-old’s future at Old Trafford.
According to Football Insider, Manchester United are planning to hold talks with Luke Shaw over a new contract at the start of 2027.
United still believe Shaw has a long-term role at the club and will consider his needs during negotiations over an extension.
The club are keen to resolve his future quickly because they are unwilling to risk losing him on a free transfer.
Shaw is currently in his 13th season at Manchester United and remains the longest-serving member of their senior squad.
There is also genuine hope behind the scenes that his previous fitness problems may now largely be behind him.
However, United still want greater long-term cover at left-back after failing to strengthen that position during the summer.
Therefore, a potential new contract would not prevent the club from bringing in additional competition for Shaw in the future.
For now, Manchester United still consider Shaw their first-choice left-back and intend to secure his future as quickly as possible.
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