'Huge': Man Utd now want to pip Liverpool to 'dangerous' £25m starlet; he's considering a move

Manchester United and Liverpool both hold ‘huge’ interest in Hoffenheim midfielder Christoph Baumgartner, according to reports in Germany.

Baumgartner is 22 years of age and can play as an attacking midfielder, central midfielder or left-winger. [Transfermarkt]

The Austria international has made 100 senior appearances for his current employers after coming through the academy, scoring 22 times and registering 14 assists.

Labelled as ‘dangerous’ by Hoffenheim sporting director Alexander Rosen, Baumgartner still has over three years left on his current contract but is now catching the eye in England, scoring six times from midfield in something of a breakout season.

Sports Witness relayed a story from German outlet Bild on Wednesday regarding Baumgartner. They claimed that the interest in the midfielder is ‘huge’, with both Manchester United and Liverpool including the Hoffenheim star on their summer wishlist.

Baumgartner has a €30m (£25m) release clause and is considering his next move following interest from United and Liverpool.

Erik ten Hag will arrive at Old Trafford in the coming weeks ahead of a busy first summer as manager. The Dutchman could make a number of additions as he looks to rebuild the club, so bringing in someone like Baumgartner could prove to be a smart call.

Still just 22 years of age, Baumgartner has enjoyed a brilliant rise in the Bundesliga, with his Transfermarkt valuation increasing from £1.8m to £19.8m in just two years.

He is now Hoffenheim’s most valuable player, and with Jesse Lingard and Juan Mata out of contract this summer, Baumgartner could be the perfect addition to challenge Bruno Fernandes in an attacking midfield role going forward.

In other news: ‘In the coming weeks’ – Fabrizio