Man Utd prepared to sign Sabitzer on permanent deal

Suraj Radia

• Updated: 11 Feb 2023 15:55 GMT
• 2 min read

Manchester United are open to permanently signing Marcel Sabitzer if the on-loan Bayern Munich man impresses during his loan spell.

The Austrian joined United on deadline day until the end of the season after Christian Eriksen suffered an injury that will keep him out of action until May, prompting the club to look for midfield reinforcements.

Sabitzer made his first start for United in their draw with Leeds and he is expected to continue in midfield when the two sides face each other again this weekend, with Scott McTominay also injured.

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There is not believed to be an option to turn Sabitzer’s move into a permanent one but ESPN reports that United have told the 28-year-old that he can still earn a long-term contract with the club.

Erik ten Hag is hoping the prospect of a permanent move will incentivise Sabitzer and fellow loanee Wout Weghorst into putting in the performances to prove their worth.

Sabitzer still has two years remaining on his contract, having joined Bayern for €16 million in 2021 from rivals RB Leipzig, but he has fallen down the pecking order at the club, prompting his move to Old Trafford.

United looking to strengthen all over the pitch in the summer

United are still believed to be in the market for a midfielder this summer to partner Casemiro, with a move for Frenkie de Jong still likely to be considered despite the Dutchman rejecting an approach from the club last year.

De Jong is thought to be more open to a move after United’s positive start under Erik ten Hag but Barcelona have insisted the midfielder is not for sale, although their financial situation means that a big-money bid will likely be considered.

Weghorst, meanwhile, has netted just one goal in seven appearances for United and the club are desperate to sign a new number nine in the summer when the striker returns to Burnley.

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While United will focus their resources on a striker and midfielder, they are also interested in a defender and goalkeeper but further moves will likely hinge on sales being made, with Harry Maguire and Anthony Martial likely to depart.