Manchester United's new manager Ruben Amorim has reportedly been handed an early transfer blow, with Bayern Munich stating that Leroy Sane is not for sale this January.
The right-hand side of attack is one of Amorim's key conundrums as he takes charge at Old Trafford, with no standout option in that position.
Alejandro Garnacho and Amad Diallo have shared the responsibilities in that position for much of the season so far, but the latter is still young and experienced, while the former's preferred position on the left.
Amorim's preferred system of a 3-4-3 relies heavily on its wide players, and it is likely the Portuguese boss will make some adjustments in that area of the pitch.
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Sane off the market in January?
However, the Red Devils may have to look elsewhere if they want to bolster their options in the winter transfer window, with Sane set to stay at Bayern.
Sky Germany claim that the prospect of Sane departing in January "can be ruled out at this stage", despite the fact his contract in Munich expires at the end of the season.
The report goes on to state that the two parties are no closer to agreeing a new deal, but there is still the belief that one will be struck before Sane could leave for nothing.
Bayern are seeking to reduce Sane's wages significantly, from around £16.5m to £13m-per-year, and that is likely where the current stumbling block lies.
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Sane's situation at the Allianz
Reports last week also stated that Arsenal were keeping tabs on Sane, and were hopeful of agreeing a pre-contract in January, so this news will also be a blow to them.
Sane has been mostly a fringe player for the German giants this season under his former Manchester City team mate Vincent Kompany, playing second-fiddle to Michael Olise, Kingsley Coman and Serge Gnabry.
The 28-year-old only made his first Bundesliga start of the season in the 1-0 win at St Pauli at the weekend, as his previous five had all come from the bench, as well as all four of his Champions League appearances.
That lack of game time had also seen him overlooked by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann in September and October, but Sane is in the squad for the upcoming international break this week, following slightly increased game time at the Allianz Arena.
Andrew Delaney
