Revealed: The Bayern star Man Utd wanted over Sabitzer

Jacque Talbot

• 31 Jan 2023 19:20 GMT
• 3 min read

Manchester United considered moves for Youri Tielemans, Isco and Ryan Gravenberch before deciding on Marcel Sabitzer, who is arriving on loan.

Erik ten Hag brought in the midfielder to fill the gap following news of Christian Eriksen's long-term injury.

The Bayern Munich player is thought to arrive on loan on Deadline Day - but the Red Devils looked at a number of other players before making the move.

READ MORE: Man Utd ‘on the brink’ of Sabitzer loan

The Independent report that Leicester City’s Tielemans, free agent Isco, and Ryan Gravenberch of Munich were also looked at before they opted for Sabitzer.

Indeed, Man Utd were indeed dealt a blow with Eriksen out, with the former Tottenham attacker ruled out with an ankle injury until April or May.

It means that Ten Hag has only two fit central midfielders for the upcoming games against Nottingham Forest and Crystal Palace over the next week - until the signing of Sabitzer is wrapped up, which it looks like it will be.

Erik ten Hag’s revolution

There are calls for big upgrades to the Man Utd side in the summer, with the likes of Fred and Scott McTominey linked with moves away.

But the Dutchman spoke about his admiration for Fred ahead of the deadline - a player who could well be moved on in the summer.

He said in a press conference: “I think you mentioned already in your first sermon he's playing together with Casemiro in the Brazil squad, there's not a worse squad in the world, they have so many choices they can make, but they play together and that tells something about the quality Fred has and what he can contribute to the team.

"You see against Tottenham and Man City, when he's coming on last game he scores a goal, he has a lot of qualities, and they're a good combination, Casemiro and Fred."