Manchester United eye surprise move for Bayern Munich star after signing 2 players from Bundesliga giants this summer - Reports

Manchester United are keeping a close eye on Bayern Munich midfielder Leon Goretzka, according to The Sun. The Germany international has dropped down the pecking order at the Allianz Arena and could leave the club in 2025.

Goretzka was a first-team regular for the Bavarian giants but has seen his role diminish since the arrival of new manager Vincent Kompany at the start of the season. The Red Devils are long-term admirers of the 29-year-old and have previously tried to take him to Old Trafford.

The Premier League giants improved their midfield by roping in Manuel Ugarte from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) this summer. However, with Casemiro and Christian Eriksen staring at uncertain futures, Manchester United have identified Goretzka as a possible target for next year.

The Red Devils signed Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui from the German giants this summer. However, United could raid Bayern Munich again in 2025 for Leon Goretzka.

The German midfielder has played just 10 minutes across two matches in all competitions this season. He came off the bench in the Champions League game against Dinamo Zagreb on Tuesday night (September 17). Although he scored once in the 9-2 win, his situation is unlikely to improve his situation under Kompany.

Speaking over the weekend, Bayern Munich sporting director Max Eberl also hinted that Goretzka could be reaching the end of his time at the club.

"We communicated very clearly from the start. Leon knew that we were relying on Pavlo (Pavlovic), and that we would bring in with Palhinha and that Joshua (Kimmich) would play more in the centre again," said Eberl.

"We've also said that when Leon is there and ready to face the situation, he'll be treated completely normally. Leon's a great guy. I like him a lot, even though he's obviously upset at the moment. I understand that too. But that's part of life in football," he added.

Goretzka's contract with the Bavarians expires in 2026, and Manchester United could sign him for a reduced fee next summer. However, they will face competition from West Ham United for the player.

Could Leon Goretzka improve Manchester United?

Leon Goretzka

The midfield has been Manchester United's bane in recent times and new minority owners INEOS are already working to fix the issues.

Goretzka's proposed arrival could add steel to the Red Devils squad. He could also be an upgrade on Scott McTominay, who departed for Napoli this summer.

The Premier League giants have shifted their transfer strategy to sign younger talents this summer. However, Manchester United could consider an exception in the German, who can add much-needed experience and expertise to their squad.