Man United have golden chance to strike third deal as 'dressing room leader' told he won't play

Manchester United could sign their third Bayern Munich player of the summer and their former midfield target in one fell swoop after the German giants put Leon Goretzka up for sale

Fabrizio Romano reports Bayern will make it clear to Goretzka that he will not have a starting role under new manager Vincent Kompany this season. With the German international surplus to requirements, it would make sense for last year’s Bundesliga runners-up to cash in on the box-to-box midfielder.

There has not yet been any reported interest from United’s part regarding the 29-year-old. But that could well change as the Red Devils are currently in the market for a similar profile of player.

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Erik ten Hag’s current options in the centre of the pitch are Kobbie Mainoo, Scott McTominay, Mason Mount and ageing duo Christian Eriksen and Casemiro. Goretzka is currently in his prime and offers dynamism in midfield, capable of playing in a three and in a double-pivot.

Should United make a successful approach, Goretzka would astonishingly become their third Bayern signing this summer. It comes after they secured a double swoop of defenders Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui for a combined sum of over £50m last week.

The move may not be as simple as it may seem initially, though, with Goretzka repeatedly insisting his desire is to stay at Bayern due to his love for the club and the city. Yet he would be forced out should a tantalising enough offer come in, as Bayern will look to cash in on him before his contract ends in 2026.

United also have other targets