Man Utd embroiled in THREE-WAY battle to sign World Cup winner

Tom Weber

27 Jul 2023 18:07 BST
3 min read

Erik ten Hag and the Manchester United badge on a red abstract background — © ProShots

Manchester United are still keen on Benjamin Pavard, but they face fierce competition from two other clubs, according to Italian media.

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The Frenchman has informed Bayern Munich that he has no intention of renewing his contract, which is due to expire in 2024. Indeed, he would be open to departing already this window and the Bavarians, too, are keen to get him out and cash in on him while they still can, as they did with Lucas Hernandez.

Despite this, Pavard is no closer to a Munich exit than at the start of the summer window. He has no shortage of suitors, but concrete offers for the 2018 World Cup winner have thus far proved elusive. Barcelona were at one point said to be keen on the 27-year-old, but those rumours have died down due to the Blaugrana's financial situation.

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Erik ten Hag is reportedly a long-time admirer of the versatile defender, yet the Dutchman has had different transfer priorities until now. Nevertheless, the interest remains and more clubs are now being credited with eyeing Pavard.

A three-way battle

According to Calciomercato, the saga surrounding the Bayern star will come down to three clubs: United, Manchester City and Juventus. Even though Kyle Walker's potential move the other way has not yet materialised, City are keen on Pavard.

As for the Bianconeri, they are in the market for another defender after exiling club legend Leonardo Bonucci from the squad, while Bremer has been repeatedly linked with a move away.

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Due to his expiring contract, Pavard only has an Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) of €24.6 million, so he would certainly be attainable. His salary demands could prove an issue, however, as could the fact - for the two Manchester giants at least - that he is said to favour a move to Southern Europe.