Man Utd face further transfer snub as Bayern Munich ‘make first bid’ for Red Devils target

Bayern Munich reportedly made the first offer for Manchester United target Konrad Laimer. Erik ten Hag’s side had already dispatched scouts to study the RB Leipzig midfielder, but despite their initial offer being rejected, they may lose out to Bayern Munich.

According to Bild, the German conglomerate offered £20.7 million for the Austrian, but that price was rejected because they expect to collect a sum of up to £26 million to part with the guy who has only one year left on his contract. Laimer’s contract did have a £30.2 million release clause, but it expired on June 30.

He would be a cheaper alternative in midfield than some of United’s other transfer targets, given the club has reportedly negotiated a cost with Barcelona of £56.2 million-plus add-ons for Frenkie de Jong. Christian Eriksen has also been connected following the expiration of his Brentford contract, and it appears to be a direct shootout between United and Brentford for his signature after Tottenham cooled their interest.

Eriksen assisted in Denmark’s 2-1 loss to Austria in June, while United scouts were reportedly present and able to keep a close eye on both the Dane star and Laimer as they analyze their alternatives in midfield.

According to the Mail, incoming Austria head coach and former Manchester United manager Ralf Rangnick reportedly recommended Laimer as part of a major summer restructure at Old Trafford.

Laimer has rejected a new deal with Leipzig, who may be more willing to transfer the 25-year-old to United rather than the Bundesliga champions after losing both Dayot Upamencano and Marcel Sabitzer in the last year. Laimer discussed his future with Bild in May.

“I currently play for RB Leipzig. My contract runs until 2023, and it makes no sense to talk about it [transfer rumors] at this point in the season.

“Otherwise, there would be only turmoil, and I would have to be concerned about things that aren’t the most important right now. I’ll be 25 in May and have enough experience to make such judgments with confidence. I require a pleasant sensation. I have to like what others say to me. It’s all about the plan, both for me and the team. Of course, goals are involved. I’ll do it if I’m certain about it.

“Every player and situation is unique. What happens to one player does not always happen to another. It also relies on the type of player you are and what motivates you. Getting knowledge is useful, but I make my own decisions. I focus on myself, not on how others behave.”