Man Utd ready to replace Sabitzer with German ace whose move would derail major Arsenal transfer

Man Utd are monitoring a Bayern Munich star whose arrival could coincide with the German powerhouse signing Declan Rice at the expense of Arsenal, per reports.

The race to sign West Ham captain, Declan Rice, appears to be down to two clubs. Remaining in England is understood to be Rice’s priority and as such, Arsenal hold a distinct advantage over fellow suitor Bayern Munich.

However, the virtual guarantee of winning trophies and playing in the Champions League every year at Bayern does have its appeal.

Their manager, Thomas Tuchel, is the driving force behind Bayern’s pursuit of the England international.

Tuchel’s current central midfield options include Joshua Kimmich, Leon Goretzka, Ryan Gravenberch and Konrad Laimer who’ll join from RB Leipzig.

Tuchel will also have Marcel Sabitzer back among the Bayern ranks after Man Utd opted against pursuing a permanent move for the loanee. However, Sabitzer is not expected to feature in Tuchel’s plans and could move on soon after returning to Germany.

But with Bayern pushing to sign Rice, another midfielder could be nudged out of Munich – Leon Goretzka.

That’s where Man Utd come in, with Sky Germany bringing news of Erik ten Hag mulling a move.

Indeed, their reporter, Florian Plettenberg, tweeted Man Utd are “monitoring” Goretzka’s situation.

The 28-year-old has 50 caps for Germany, though his future in Bavaria is coming under a cloud.

In Bayern’s title-defining clash with Cologne on May 27, Goretzka was left on the bench with Gravenberch preferred. The German was called upon off the bench in the 71st minute by Tuchel, though was embarrassingly brought off just 14 minutes after coming on.

Sky Germany suggest that was an indication Goretzka has become a saleable asset and is not regarded highly by his manager.

Plettenberg noted Rice’s potential switch to Bayern is another factor that makes Goretzka’s future even more uncertain.

From the player’s perspective, Goretzka wishes to remain at Bayern, though the decision may be taken out of his hands by Tuchel who has ordered a midfield revamp.

Man Utd are keeping tabs on the situation and if they emerge as a credible landing spot for Goretzka, Bayern would be emboldened to beat Arsenal to Rice.

Goretzka would represent more of a box-to-box option for Ten Hag who could work well alongside Casemiro.

The report did not list how much Bayern would command for Goretzka, though he’s unlikely to come cheap despite being 28.

Transfermarkt cite a valuation of €65m (approx. £56m). The fact he’s under contract until 2026 further strengthens Bayern’s hand.

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