Why Man Utd could land Gravenberch from Bayern Munich as Amrabat transfer stalls

30 Aug 2023 17:53 BST
3 min read

Manchester United could be boosted in their pursuit of Ryan Gravenberch after Bayern Munich made moves to sign a defensive midfielder in anticipation of any departures.

Erik ten Hag has identified Gravenberch an alternative to Sofyan Amrabat, who is his top target in midfield, with the hopes that he can bring either player to Old Trafford on loan.

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United have so far seen any approach for Amrabat rebuffed by Fiorentina, who would prefer to sell the Moroccan permanently, however Bayern may be more open to a loan for Gravenberch, particularly if they can get a replacement in.

POTENTIAL: United re-open talks with Fiorentina over Amrabat

And that replacement could be Joao Palhinha, with a report from the Evening Standard claiming that Bayern are set to make a move for the Fulham midfielder.

Palhinha has been a standout performer in the Premier League since joining Fulham last year for £20 million, and the Cottagers have already turned down a bid of £60m from West Ham this summer.

The 28-year-old is described as Thomas Tuchel’s top target and the Bundesliga side will test Fulham’s resolve before Friday’s transfer deadline, with United carefully monitoring to see how any deal could impact their chase for Gravenberch.

Tuchel looking to reunite with Chelsea star before deadline day

Bayern are still looking to bring in one more player before the end of the month although they have also entered into talks with Chelsea over Trevoh Chalobah as a potential replacement for Benjamin Pavard.

Pavard is set to join Inter, having previously been wanted by United, and Tuchel sees Chalobah as an ideal option, although Bayern have had a loan bid rejected by Chelsea.

Tuchel is keen to reunite with a player who he managed at Chelsea but the Blues are said to be holding out for £50m for Chalobah rather than a loan move, which could scupper any hopes of a deal despite talks still continuing.

BIG MONEY: Chelsea's huge demands for Chalobah

Irrespective of incomings or outgoings, Gravenberch could still push through an exit after playing just nine minutes this season, with the 21-year-old desperate for first team football.