Manchester United are set to recall Ethan Laird from his loan-spell at Swansea City and loan him out to fellow Championship side Bournemouth for the remainder of the season.
Laird, 20, impressed during the first-half of the campaign in South Wales but is now set for a chance to impress in a side which is fighting for promotion back to the Premier League.
The United youngster played predominantly as a right wing back for Swansea, registering four assists in 21 appearances for Russell Martins's side, as part of an inconsistent season who are 16th in the table at the halfway stage.
Laird will instead link-up with Scott Parker's side, who currently occupy top spot in the Championship and are in a strong position to fulfil their ambitions of a return to the Premier League.
Unlike at Swansea, it is presumed Laird will be required to play as a traditional right back as part of a back-four — a formation in which the Cherries have looked comfortable all season.
Laird will face competition from versatile defender Jack Stacey for a starting role on the right-side of defence, with the 25-year-old having already amassed 18 appearances there for Bournemouth this season.
Only last month the United youngster insisted he was happy at Swansea and was confident the side could overcome their recent slide in form.
“There’s nothing to worry about, that has to be the message through the whole club,” Laird said.
“We know we are capable of being one of the best teams in the league. The way we play, there is no-one else who plays the way we play.
“I strongly believe that, and I think everyone involved with the club believes it. The gaffer has implemented a style in such a short period of time, and everyone has been so happy when it has clicked and gone well."
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