Why Derby County should make a move for Man United’s George Tanner

According to the Manchester Evening News, Derby County have been linked with a move for Manchester United left-back George Tanner.

George Tanner, 20, is currently on a season-long loan at Morecambe, having made 27 appearances across all competitions. The young full-back is out of contract at the end of the season and Manchester United are willing to let him go on a permanent basis in the current window, the report adds.

Derby County, meanwhile, made a poor start to the season under Phillip Cocu but there’s still time for the team to get their season back on track. They have won their last three matches in all competitions and appear to finally be starting to build some momentum.

George Tanner of England in action against Ahmed Minhali of Qatar during the U18 International friendly match between Qatar and England at the Grand Hamad Stadium on March 27, 2017 in Doha, Qatar. (Getty Images)

The addition of Wayne Rooney has certainly been impactful, with the former Manchester United star helping the Rams beat Barnsley in the Championship last week and knock Crystal Palace out of the FA Cup third round on Sunday. However, Cocu needs a couple of additions more if his team are to make it to the playoffs this term as well.

With Rooney’s acquisition strengthening the creative department, Cocu would be wise to now shift his focus towards shoring up the defence. Derby have leaked 34 goals in 26 games, with none of the current defenders performing consistently.

It’s very important that the Rams boss tightens up his backline and the addition of George Tanner could help him in his cause.

Tanner can play as either a right-back or a left-back. He has made his way through the Manchester United academy and his spell at Morecambe is his first loan spell in professional football. The youngster has performed admirably well for the League Two side, making 27 appearances overall.

Derby County coach Phillip Cocu. (Getty Images)

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Young, fit and plenty of room to learn a few things, the 20-year-old’s lung-busting runs down the left flank should naturally give more space for someone like Rooney to create his magic in the final third. Despite naturally being an attack-minded full-back, Tanner is also defensively diligent and is certainly someone who fits that bill at Pride Park right now.

Verdict

Cocu has given opportunities to a lot of young players at Derby this season and there’s no doubting his ability to get the best out of Tanner, whose potential is clear. Hence, the Rams must quickly get a deal done for the talented Manchester United youngster.