Manchester United have assessed West Ham United defender Ollie Scarles, although their interest has not developed into a formal approach.
Ben Jacobs claims the Old Trafford club have considered the 20-year-old while reviewing young and versatile full-back options.
Scarles can operate at left-back or wing-back and has also played in more advanced positions on the left.
However, Jacobs stressed that United’s work has remained at the assessment stage.
“They’ve assessed some young names, like Oliver Scarles at West Ham United, as a full-back option, who is relatively versatile,” Jacobs told The United Stand.
“I’m not aware of anything developing.”
A report carrying Jacobs’ comments adds that United have only made preliminary checks and have not advanced their interest.
West Ham retain control over Scarles
The update should ease any immediate concern over Scarles’ future at the London Stadium.
He remains under contract until 2028, while West Ham also hold an option to extend that agreement by another year.
The academy graduate has made 28 senior league appearances and was named the club’s Young Hammer of the Year in 2025.
His pathway could become even more important following West Ham’s relegation to the Championship.
As Read West Ham previously examined, Scarles is among the academy players who could receive more consistent first-team opportunities during the club’s rebuild.
Nuno Espírito Santo must balance the need for immediate promotion with the development of West Ham’s best young players.
Scarles fits both aims. He already has senior experience but still possesses considerable room to improve.
Manchester United’s assessment reflects his growing reputation, but West Ham currently face no active bid or negotiation for his services.
