Pranav Nair
Manchester United eye Leon Goretzka as a potential replacement for Paul Pogba
According to Sport Bild (h/t The Express), Manchester United are eyeing German midfielder Leon Goretzka as a potential replacement for French ace Paul Pogba this summer.
The Bayern Munich midfielder is one of the finest players in the Bundesliga. He has just a year left on his current deal at the Allianz Arena and is yet to make a decision on his future.
The situation mirrors exactly what United are dealing with regarding Pogba. The Frenchman too us yet to make a decision on his future. With the possibility of losing him an option, the Red Devils appear to be readying replacements this summer.
According to the report, Bayern’s efforts to reach an agreement with Goretzka is yet to pay off. A number of Bayern stars are said to be unhappy with the salary package offered to Real Madrid bound David Alaba. This has led to a sudden spike in salary demands with the squad.
Kingsley Coman, another Bayern star linked with United is also unhappy with his wages and is seeking better terms in order to agree to a contract extension. It would appear the German giants have walked themselves into a corner, thanks to the numbers offered to Alaba and also Leroy Sane. (h/t The Daily Mail)
Signing Goretzka is an intriguing prospect for United. Not only is he a good technician of the ball but is also physically robust to handle the physicality of the Premier League.
A bigger game
According to journalist Jan Aage Fjortoft on Twitter, United’s interest in Goretzka is being drummed up by the player’s entourage to gain leverage in negotiations with Bayern. A key player for the Germans, he is seeking to speed up contract negotiations and also gain a better payday. It remains to be seen just how the approach pans out.
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Goretzka started last night’s game for Germany against England. He played the whole match as the former World Champions were dumped out of the Euros. If United scouts were watching, it is fair to say that they had little to cheer about regarding the midfielder’s performances.
