Man United chase Bayern midfielder as Conte nears United job
Inside the bustling offices of Old Trafford, scouts from Man Utd pore over footage of a 22‑year‑old Bayern Munich midfielder, while senior staff discuss Antonio Conte’s growing proximity to the United dugout after Michael Carrick’s shaky tenure.
Midfield overhaul and lingering doubts
Manchester United rebuilt their midfield this summer, securing Carlos Baleba, Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans. The trio arrived with high expectations, but doubts have already surfaced over the long‑term suitability of Santos and Tielemans.
Critics argue United may regret the signings after missing out on several other targets. The concerns centre on whether the new arrivals can deliver the consistency required for a club aiming to challenge at the top.
Even with the fresh faces, the club’s hierarchy remains uneasy, fearing the squad could lack the balance needed for a sustained title push.
Pavlovic and Conte dominate United's agenda
German source Fussball News United, Manchester City, Real Madrid and Paris Saint‑Germain are all seriously considering a move for Aleksandar Pavlovic, the other half of Bayern’s defensive midfield duo alongside Dayot Upamecano.
Manchester United keep Carrick despite Conte ‘agreement’ rumours
Pavlovic’s dominant displays have made him one of Bayern’s most valuable players, and his 22‑year‑old form has impressed United enough to place him at the top of their shortlist.
Manchester City made the first approach, signalling a €100 million (£84 million) bid, which Bayern Munich promptly rejected, insisting they will not sell Pavlovic under any circumstances.
Italian media name Antonio Conte as the frontrunner to replace Michael Carrick if the latter is dismissed. Enzo Bucchioni wrote, “Antonio Conte’s return, the former Juventus coach is reaching an agreement with Manchester United, who have had a poor start to the Premier League, having also been held yesterday by Roberto De Zerbi’s Tottenham.” An Italian source added, “United chiefs are seriously considering sacking Carrick and entrusting Conte to turn things around,” and quoted, “Conte would gladly accept a call from Manchester United.”
Fulham’s two-game deadline puts Alvaro Arbeloa under mounting pressure
United are also tracking Fulham’s attacking midfielder Josh King. Fulham, managed by Alvaro Arbeloa, have no intention of selling him in January; his contract runs for three more years and his valuation exceeds £50 million. The Cottagers sit bottom of the table with just two points from six matches, a poor season that could jeopardise their hold on the player.