With Harry Maguire on the verge of joining West Ham, it makes perfect sense for Manchester United to make advances in their search for a new defender.
Fabrizio Romano reports that Manchester United are now in contact with Bayern Munich over a potential transfer for Benjamin Pavard.
Pavard does not intend to extend his contract at Bayern, which expires in less than 12 months.
This puts the Bundesliga champions in an awkward position because they won’t want to lose an asset like Pavard on a free.
With Pavard unwilling to agree to new terms, Bayern can either sell now or face up to losing the France international for free in 2024.
Romano claims the wheels are in motion for United to make an official bid for the defender. In a fresh update, the Italian journalist wrote: “Understand Manchester United have contacted Bayern for Benjamin Savard deal. There’s still no green light from Bayern. But Pavard’s intention is clear. He wants to leave and try new chapter. Pavard won’t sign new deal at Bayern, and the current one expires in June 2024.”
Understand Manchester United have contacted Bayern for Benjamin Pavard deal 🚨🔴 #MUFC
There’s still no green light from Bayern.
But Pavard intention is clear: he wants to leave and try new chapter.
Pavard won’t sign new deal at Bayern and current one expires in June 2024. pic.twitter.com/uM2vGdv0SS
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 12, 2023
Just three days ago, Tz’s Philipp Kessler was first to claim that Pavard wants to leave Bavaria, even though Thomas Tuchel has made it clear to the player that he is part of his plans. He added that United had been in contact with the player’s entourage, so an approach to Bayern suggests Pavard has given a green light to moving to Old Trafford.
United could be getting a versatile defender in Pavard if a deal materialises. My standard memory from the French defender is his stunning goal against Argentina in the 2018 World Cup.
Get the latest Manchester United news, opinion, interviews and exclusive features with the Stretty Newsletter – Ad Free! Kick off your afternoon with the Stretty News verdict on all matters Manchester United.