Leroy Sane
Leroy Sane of Bayern Munich
Manchester United could reportedly be handed a transfer blow in their apparent pursuit for Bayern Munich star Leroy Sane.
The 28-year-old, who has six months left on his contract, will be allowed to engage in dialouge with other clubs in the New Year. The former Manchester City winger joined the German giants in 2020 from the Etihad and has gone on to rack up 194 appearances to date.
Spanish newspaper SPORT report that Premier League trio - Chelsea, United and Tottenham are interested in Sane's services. Barcelona are also said to be monitoring his situation, having previously been offered to the Spanish giants.
Sane is said to have a 'very special' relationship with Barca head coach Hansi Flick and that factor could put them at an advantage over other clubs. In a recent interview with German outlet Bild, Sane clarified whether he would be interested in returning to the English top-flight.
"I have a fondness for the league and still follow certain games on TV," he said. "But the attraction for me lies in the club where I can show my best performance, develop, and win titles. I have that at FC Bayern. This is where I have my biggest challenge and goals."
On contract talks, Sane added: "I feel good at the club and in the dressing room. What counts for me is that I'm an important part of Bayern's plans and I want to confirm that role. Generally speaking, how much I earn is not my first priority. To be honest, I haven't thought about it. It's about the whole package.
"What is my position? How does the club see me? What is the playing philosophy? Can we achieve something big like winning the Champions League together? Those are the things that are most important to me. I don't need a quick decision. I want to hit my stride by winter and win as many games as possible with FC Bayern. As I said, I trust myself and the situation."
Elsewhere, United are claimed to have joined the race for RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko. That's according to TBR Football who suggest that United were one of three clubs - plus Arsenal and City - to send scouts to watch the 21-year-old in action.
The Slovenian striker was linked with a move to Arsenal at the start of the summer transfer window as Mikel Arteta tried to add a new centre forward to his squad. However, he opted to commit his long-term future to the Bundesliga side, extending his deal until the summer of 2029.
The reports adds 'more than 20 clubs' were in attendance at the Allianz Arena on Friday night as Bayern Munich demolished Leipzig 5-1. Sesko scored the only goal for the visitors.