Man Utd Monitor Crystal Palace Left-Back Tyrick Mitchell as Luke Shaw Competition

Manchester United are reportedly tracking Crystal Palace defender Tyrick Mitchell, with a January approach a genuine possibility, according to Football Insider.

Why Man Utd Need a Left-Back

United strengthened in midfield this summer through Youri Tielemans, Carlos Baleba and Andrey Santos, yet no serious rival for Luke Shaw arrived on the left. Shaw started every Premier League game in 2025/26 without injury, but he has already missed three matches this term, reviving old concerns. Patrick Dorgu, meanwhile, looks more natural higher up the pitch and struggled at left-back against Manchester City this month.

Tyrick Mitchell’s Contract Situation

Mitchell’s deal at Selhurst Park expires next summer, although Palace are hopeful the academy graduate will extend. The Conference League holders are working hard to keep him. If talks stall, a January fee could undercut his £21.4million Transfermarkt valuation. Manchester City, for context, paid £20million for Marc Guehi last winter with his contract running down.

Mitchell vs Shaw by the Numbers

Last season Mitchell averaged nearly three tackles, five recoveries and 4.5 duels won per Premier League game. Shaw managed two tackles, three recoveries and 4.4 duels. Now 27, Mitchell has mostly played as a left wing-back, though he began his career as a full-back.

Shaw’s Future at Old Trafford

Shaw, 31, has spent 14 years at the club and missed more than 250 games through injury. His contract also expires in 2027, so United could let him leave at the end of the season. With Dorgu better suited to a wider role, two new left-backs may be on the shopping list.

Our Opinion on the Mitchell Link

In my view, Mitchell suits what Michael Carrick’s side lack. His defensive output looks stronger than Shaw’s, and he is in his prime. A January bid also feels sensible, because Palace may prefer a fee over losing him for nothing in the summer.