Premier League rivals join race for Man Utd loanee

Suraj Radia

• 6 Apr 2023 14:48 BST
• 2 min read

Manchester United could face a fight to sign Marcel Sabitzer on a permanent deal this summer, with Premier League sides reportedly taking interest in the midfielder.

Sabitzer joined on loan from Bayern Munich in January as cover for Christian Eriksen, who picked up a long-term injury, and the Austrian has been a reliable option for Erik ten Hag’s side.

The 29-year-old has made seven Premier League appearances and netted his first goal in the FA Cup win over Fulham last month, as well as his first assist in United’s most recent victory over Brentford.

OPEN: Bayern Munich's stance on Sabitzer

There is not believed to be an option for United to make the move permanent but a return to Bayern is thought to be ‘unlikely’ according to Sky Sport Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg.

Sabitzer is described as ‘comfortable’ at United and, while nothing has been decided yet, the Austrian is open to a permanent deal, with decisive talks to follow in the coming weeks.

However, Plettenberg has claimed that many clubs in the Premier League have inquired about Sabitzer, with Bayern likely to be willing sellers should they make a profit on the €16 million they paid RB Leipzig for him in 2021.

Why Man Utd could turn to Sabitzer in midfielder pursuit

United are planning to continue their rebuild under Ten Hag this summer after a massive outlay last year which saw the club spend in excess of £200m on players.

A striker is thought to be the club’s priority, with Harry Kane considered the top target along with Victor Osimhen and Goncalo Ramos, but a midfielder is also expected to be pursued.

SOLD!: Ten Hag convinced on Man Utd's next number nine

Ten Hag has not given up hope of signing Frenkie de Jong despite the Barcelona star turning down a move to Old Trafford last summer, while Jude Bellingham is also wanted despite being considered an unrealistic target.

With United likely to focus their resources on a striker, the budget for a midfielder could be significantly smaller, meaning a move for Sabitzer may be pursued as a more cost-effective option for a player who already appears settled at the club.