Erik ten Hag poised to land first Man Utd signing as David Raum stance damages West Ham hope

Manchester United are reportedly set to muscle their way to the front of the queue to sign David Raum after the defender’s transfer stance was revealed.

New United manager Erik ten Hag is yet to make his first splash in the transfer market as he looks to strengthen his squad. With Paul Pogba among four players to already depart, United’s squad is now weaker than last season. And given his side only laboured to a sixth-place finish, that will be a growing concern for the Dutchman.

Indeed, negotiations over a deal to sign Frenkie de Jong continue to drag on. CEO Richard Arnold admits “things are standing in our way” with talks for the Barcelona midfielder failing to make satisfactory progress.

That remains a major concern – but some relief could be on the way in the shape of Hoffenheim defender Raum.

The attack-minded left-back made a big impression in the Bundesliga last season, scoring three goals and adding 11 assists from 32 games.

That has led to links with a number of big-name suitors – and his recent displays for Germany have only heightened interest in him.

The chase for Raum was seemingly being led by West Ham. As per Bild, they, along with Borussia Dortmund and Newcastle, are all reportedly keen on the 24-year-old.

David Raum carries steep price tag

However, Hoffenheim’s £36.3m (€40m) asking price appears to have deterred Borussia Dortmund. Newcastle, meanwhile, have other areas they would like to prioritise first. Indeed, Eddie Howe’s side have already signed a new left-back this summer, making Matt Targett’s move permanent.

However, Sky Deutschland claims Raum, ultimately, has the desire to play in the Champions League. That will seemingly discount West Ham from the chase. And while Manchester United can only offer Europa League football at this stage, the Daily Mirror claims Ten Hag can convince him to sign by detailing the club’s ambition.

Raum has recently been quizzed on his future. After seeing Hoffenheim miss out on European football with a ninth-placed finish, he admits playing at that level will play a part in his next choice.

“Naturally, I would have liked to have played on the international stage with Hoffenheim,”he told Sport 1. “Unfortunately, that didn’t work out. That continues to be a dream for me.”

As such, the paper believes the player can be tempted by a switch to Old Trafford, spelling disappointment for West Ham.

Man Utd not in need of a left-back, but….

If anything, left-back is the one area United look strong in. With Luke Shaw the No 1, albeit having struggled with injuries last season, they can also count on Alex Telles.

However, the capture of Raum would be an upgrade on the Brazilian, who has struggled to nail down a regular shirt at United.

Indeed, the signing of Raum would likely mean the Red Devils listening to offers for the former Porto man.

That said, the signing of a new left-back does not look an urgent priority for United. Ten Hag must focus on landing a new midfielder, while a striker, defender and a new goalkeeper is also in his sights.

That said, the club do need a signing of some quality to get the ball rolling this summer. The lingering efforts to land De Jong do not reflect well on the club at all.

Ten Hag wants De Jong reunion

Manchester United are doing “everything they can” to sign Frenkie De Jong from Barcelona this summer, according to a leaked video featuring United’s CEO Richard Arnold

Raum would certainly tick that box, an upcoming, confident player who has just enjoyed an excellent season.

His arrival could get things kick-started for United, who are very much in need of some good news.

Meanwhile, United’s hunt for a new back-up keeper has seen a Rangers custodian targeted.