Bayern come out fighting to stop Man Utd bid for midfield powerhouse

New Bayern Munich boss Julian Nagelsmann is reportedly determined to stop Manchester United from making a move for one of his key midfield men this summer.

The Red Devils are being strongly tipped to swoop for Germany star Leon Goretzka, with the player currently having just a year remaining on his contract at The Allianz. That has piqued United’s interest in trying to land the powerful midfielder in somewhat of a bargain deal.

The 26-year-old was a major player under Hansi Flick, and Nagelsmann appears to value him just as much.

The former RB Leipzig boss has taken over at Bayern after Flick decided to call it a day. The latter has since been confirmed as Joachim Low’s successor for the national team.

According to the Daily Mail report, Bayern CEO Oliver Kahn has confirmed that talks with the player over an extension are going well.

However, they are yet to reach an agreement, which leaves a window of opportunity for United.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has already snapped up one Bundesliga star in Jadon Sancho this summer. But with Paul Pogba and Donny van de Beek both tipped to move, central midfield is an area where the Red Devils are looking for more numbers.

Manchester United keen on Palmeiras starlet Gabriel Veron

Manchester United keen on Palmeiras starlet Gabriel Veron

Manchester United have been linked with Palmeiras youngster Gabriel Veron and are in the “front row” for his signature.

For his part, Goretzka is in favour of staying in Germany. However, he will not take a team-friendly deal, which does give United hope.

Goretzka would certainly add more dynamism to Solskjaer’s midfield. As well as being a good technician, the player is also strong enough to cope with the demands of the Premier League.

However, United could face competition in the shape of Barcelona for his signature. Ronald Koeman is known to be a big admirer of Goretzka and is also monitoring the player’s developments.


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Sancho not just about goals and assists

Meanwhile, United will get more from Jadon Sancho’s signing than just his own attributes, with his former coach detailing how he will also improve those around him.

United finally announced a deal in principle for the Borussia Dortmund star earlier this month. The news ended a transfer search spanning over a year, but the Red Devils feel confident he’s worth it. Despite costing £73million, Sancho has earned a reputation in the Bundesliga as an explosive attacker offering goals and assists.

Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho England

What’s more, at 21, he could offer 10 or more years of service, potentially getting better all the time.

Ex-United defender Rio Ferdinand has warned of the impact Sancho will have in Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side.

According to his former coach Louis Lancaster, though, the winger also will also improve those around him. As such, he could lead United closer to silverware by offering more than just his own game.

Lancaster, who worked with Sancho when he was a youngster at Watford, told the Stretford Paddock: “Firstly, he’s going to bring goals and assists. He’s not a one-season wonder anymore, he’s proved that now, he’s been consistent.

“His numbers are off the chart, I think he’s getting one goal or assist per game.

“He’s making the most successful dribbles in Europe, the most entries into the box. That’s where he is going to excel.

“But I think Jadon’s greatest quality is that he can add to other people’s games. So although you’ve spent money and signed one player, I think you’re going to get a better Bruno [Fernandes], a better Pogba, [Edinson] Cavani.

“I think that’s his greatest skillset, adding value to other people’s games.”

READ MORE: Man Utd told Sancho signing a mistake and £80m alternative was man they need