"At the moment": Romano now reveals Man Utd's stance on signing German star
Manchester United are not exploring a deal for Bayern Munich midfielder Leon Goretzka before the transfer deadline on Monday, according to reputed journalist Fabrizio Romano.
The Germany international has been a key player for the Bundesliga holders over the years, but his future is uncertain, as his contract expires at the end of June.
The Red Devils have been mentioned as a possible destination for the former Schalke man this winter, but Romano has clarified that there is nothing advanced.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Romano said that Goretzka will leave Bayern as a free agent in the summer, and he will have plenty of options to choose from.
He added that the Red Devils will go very big for midfielders at the end of the campaign, but he is not aware of anything advanced for Goretzka at the moment.
Romano said: “Leon Goretzka will leave Bayern Munich as a free agent this summer and will have plenty of options. My understanding is that Manchester United will go very big for midfielders in the summer – trust me, very big.
“They could sign one or maybe two midfielders. United will go very strong for midfielders. Casemiro is leaving, but at the moment, I am not aware of anything advanced for Goretzka.”
Pure speculation
Goretzka has made almost 300 appearances in his illustrious career at Bayern. However, his playing time has gradually reduced this campaign. The German has averaged 48 minutes per appearance in his 28 games under manager Vincent Kompany.
It is unsurprising that he is considering a new challenge. We believe the Goretzka links are pure speculation as United are unlikely to recruit a midfielder who turns 31 in February and commands a hefty salary of £217,000 per week before bonuses.
Goretzka has a good passing accuracy of 93 percent in the Bundesliga this term and has impressed with his ball control in midfield. However, he would not represent a good signing even on a free transfer.
The German would demand a significant signing-on fee in addition to a salary hike. United have focused on reducing their wage bill over the past year, and this is a reason behind Casemiro’s upcoming exit.
The club are more likely to pursue two young midfielders with room to develop this summer. Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson and Brighton & Hove Albion’s Carlos Baleba are among the top targets.
Stats from Capology.com & Sofascore.com
Article written by Sri Aswin .