Manchester United placed 'on alert' after Ryan Gravenberch development and other rumours

Ajax starlet Ryan Gravenberch has confirmed that negotiations over an extension with the Eredivisie leaders have stopped amid links with Manchester United.

The Reds are looking to improve their midfield after the position has been heavily criticised this season ahead of the arrival of the new manager. Ajax's midfield maestro and 19-year-old is one of the highest-rated prospects in Europe and has already made 10 appearances for Holland.

United have been linked with a number of central midfielders this season with Gravenberch being one of them, others include Declan Rice and Amadou Haidara. The Athletic has previously mooted the Dutchman with a move to Old Trafford but prefers a move to Paris Saint-Germain or Bayern Munich with just over 12 months remaining on his current deal.

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Speaking to NOS, via Goal, Gravenberch revealed: "The contract negotiations have now been stopped. I just have one more year of contract now and that's it, really. We'll see.

"My father and agent are very busy with [handling other clubs] while I focus on football. Of course [I've seen the Bayern interest].

"You can read it everywhere, so there is interest from Bayern, but I think there are several clubs. I have no idea [what I'm worth], but if you're worth €25million (£20m) [Bayern's reported bid], you can be proud because it's a lot of money, of course."

Meanwhile, reports in Spain have suggested that the Reds are 'pressing hard' to sign a central defender, namely Ronald Araujo. But his current club Barcelona remain keen on extending his deal.

Vice-president Rafa Yuste told Cataluyna Radio, via Mundo Deportivo, that they have already offered treble