Manchester United Targets Bradley Locko in Left-Back Search
Manchester United’s search for a new left-back is heading into the final stretch of the window, and a new name has stepped into view: Bradley Locko.
The Brest defender is willing to make the move to Old Trafford and link up with Michael Carrick’s squad, according to journalist Dylan McBennett, as United push to plug a problem position before the deadline.
United abandon Balde pursuit
United have been scouring the market for days, with left-back now a clear priority. Fabrizio Romano revealed that Alejandro Balde was seriously discussed, but the numbers killed the move.
On his YouTube channel, Romano explained that United held talks with Jorge Mendes about the Barcelona full-back last week. The outcome was blunt: both transfer fee and wages were deemed too expensive by INEOS.
United have effectively parked that option. They are not prepared to go to those financial levels “at least not now,” Romano said.
Instead, the club are working on what he described as a more realistic profile. Not a superstar, but a reliable, competitive left-back with experience and an international flavour – the kind of deal that once brought Sergio Reguilon in on loan from Tottenham. Not the same player type, but the same bracket: solid, affordable, ready to step in.
Romano is convinced United will act. He expects them to bring in a left-back before the window shuts and says the club are “still looking for a solution” and “working to add a new left-back” in the final days.
Locko ready if United call
That is where Bradley Locko comes in.
McBennett reported on X that the 24-year-old Frenchman is among the left-backs open to joining United before the deadline. Posting at 8:59am on August 28, he stated that Locko is one of “numerous left-backs with desire to join United this summer.”
Locko has been with Brest since 2023 and is tied down there until 2027, a long contract that gives the Ligue 1 side some leverage. Even so, the player’s stance is clear: if United come, he is ready to go.
On the pitch, Locko has quietly built his reputation. He has made 67 appearances in all competitions for Brest, supplying five assists from the left flank. Not spectacular numbers, but enough to underline a steady, modern full-back who can contribute going forward as well as defend his side.
For United, the equation is simple. They want competition and cover at left-back without blowing up their budget. Locko fits that lane: 24, experienced in a top European league, and keen on the move.
The clock is ticking. United know they need someone in that role before the window slams shut. Whether they turn interest into a concrete bid for Locko will show just how bold – or cautious – this new recruitment strategy under INEOS really is.
