Manchester United manager Michael Carrick thanks the fans after his team’s victory during the Premier League match between Arsenal and Manchester United at Emirates Stadium on January 25, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
Former Manchester United player Quinton Fortune has urged Manchester City youngster Nico O’Reilly to consider a move as they look to strengthen their former club at left-back.
The 21-year-old has become an increasingly reliable option for Manchester City, transitioning from midfield to full-back and proving he can cope with the demands of regular Premier League football.
Quinton Fortune backs Nico O’Reilly at Manchester United
Fortune believes O’Reilly could be an ideal addition for United, especially as the club still lacks real depth on the left side of their defence.
Fortune revealed to Football365: “Players coming straight from City, I don’t know how United fans will take it!
“But they’ve got some great players. I’d say left-back Nico O’Reilly is brilliant, he can cover a centre-back and a midfielder like John O’Shea.”
Luke Shaw remains a big option at the back, but United need to start thinking about the long-term future of the role. Shaw has suffered a difficult injury record at Old Trafford and even after a more consistent 2025/26 campaign, relying on him for another demanding season would be a significant risk.
O’Reilly has already shown that he can be effective at the Premier League level. His emergence at City was particularly impressive as left-back was not his natural position at first.
The England international was mainly developed as a midfielder before Guardiola started using him at full-back and the experience paid off very well. The Premier League has highlighted his strength, pace and ability to tackle one-on-one situations, and his performances have helped him establish himself as a regular starter.
An O’Reilly signing would be ideal
For United, signing O’Reilly would provide more than just another squad option. His versatility would give the club more tactical flexibility, while his age means he could potentially be a long-term solution at left-back.
Given O’Reilly’s Manchester City background, the move would also be interesting. However, his Premier League experience and continued development make him the type of player United should consider if the opportunity arises.
So Fortune’s recommendation makes sense from both a short-term and a long-term perspective. United need more security at left-back and O’Reilly has already shown he has the qualities to compete at the highest level.