Manchester United are reportedly keeping a close eye on the situation of Bayern Munich midfielder Leon Goretzka.
The Germany international has cemented a regular starting role in the Bavarians' midfield alongside Joshua Kimmich over the past few years, establishing a reputation as one of Europe's leading central midfielders.
Goretzka has scored 34 goals and set up 35 more in 179 matches for Bayern since joining from Schalke in 2018, winning five Bundesliga titles, the Champions League, Club World Cup, UEFA Super Cups, two German Super Cups and two DFB-Pokals in the process.
After recovering from a knee operation, Goretzka enjoyed another fine season at the Allianz Arena with six goals and six assists from 40 games in all tournaments, starting 22 Bundesliga matches for Thomas Tuchel's side.
The 28-year-old still has three years left to run on his contract with the German champions, but Bayern are reportedly pushing to sign West Ham United's Declan Rice, which could threaten Goretzka's place in the team.
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Goretzka was the subject of criticism from supporters and journalists for a perceived poor second half of the season, having been brought off the bench on the final day of the Bundesliga season against Koln only to be taken off himself 14 minutes later.
According to Sky Deutschland, a summer exit is not beyond the realm of possibility following Goretzka's dip in form, although he is not actively pushing for a move away from the club.
However, the Germany international could be auctioned off if Bayern are able to pull off the signing of Declan Rice, and Man United have registered their interest.
No decision on Goretzka's future has been made yet, but the report adds that several top clubs have been made aware of his situation, meaning that Man United could face intense competition for his signature.
While the Red Devils are working to sign a striker first and foremost this summer, Erik ten Hag could give the green light to a new midfielder depending on potential departures.
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Casemiro and Christian Eriksen have both impressed since arriving in last summer, forcing Fred and Scott McTominay to accept bit-part roles in the 2022-23 campaign.
Both Fred and McTominay could be on their way out this summer as a result, while Marcel Sabitzer's loan deal from Bayern is not expected to be converted into a permanent deal.
As well as Bayern and Arsenal, Man United are thought to be monitoring developments surrounding Rice's future ahead of his expected departure from West Ham United.
Hammer boss David Moyes has admitted that the 24-year-old has a "good chance" of moving on this summer, and Wednesday's Europa Conference League final with Fiorentina could be his final match for the club.
However, Man United's recruitment team are reportedly divided when it comes to a deal for Rice, having been told in the past that the England international was not for sale.
Ben Knapton
