24 November 2023 , 07:34
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Manchester United have tried and failed to land Thomas Muller on numerous occasions.
The Bayern Munich man has been one of Europe's most consistent performers for well over a decade but has spent his entire career at the Allianz Arena. Now at the age of 34, there is a decision for Muller to make with his contract winding down in Bavaria.
He remains an integral figure for the German champions, but would have no shortage of offers if he did choose to try something new late in his career. Muller has made more appearances than any outfield player in the club's history but was first on United's radar 10 years ago.
Louis van Gaal helped a young Muller blossom in the Bayern first-team and looked to bring him to Manchester. The Dutchman was ready to spend big, but even that wasn't enough for the Bundesliga outfit, who had no interest of letting their player go.
"Insane offer" snubbed
Muller previously told Merkur : "Bayern clearly rejected the whole thing - despite this insane offer from United. [But it was a] huge vote of confidence from Bayern."
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That decision underlined the value Muller had to the German club and he's continued to win title after title in his homeland. Alongside that he's regularly picked up other domestic honours and added a second Champions League to his CV after Bayern's treble triumph in 2020.
Louis van Gaal was keen to sign the German when he was in charge in Manchester (PA)United's interest in Muller didn't end with Van Gaal's departure in 2016. Erik ten Hag cut his teeth at Bayern and clearly has similar admiration for the German with Bild reporting that last January the current United boss made an approach to sign him.
Once again, the club were unsuccessful. Muller's versatility has always been a huge asset. He's played as a No 9, out on the flank but also occupied deeper roles in midfield. His productivity is underlined, not only by his goals, but the amount of assists he's accumulated.
Tuchel clear on plan
Thomas Tuchel is now the man looking to get the best from Muller at the Allianz Arena. This is the former Chelsea boss' first full season at Bayern and he's made no secret of the fact he wants to keep Muller amid interest from the MLS and the Saudi Pro League.
"Of course we want him on our team," said Tuchel. "It goes without saying that he wants to continue. He is in great shape, keen to train and play, he is a footballer through and through. Why shouldn’t he continue playing at the highest level?
Thomas Muller's future is uncertain"Of course, we don’t know now what role he will have in the new season. I see him very positively because he is someone who gives the team energy. It’s only November now, so of course we can’t say how his role will develop, but he is a legendary player, an icon for our team and gets the maximum respect."
Muller has already made 14 appearances across all competitions, scoring twice. There is increased competition at Bayern with Harry Kane now their premier marksman and youngster Mathys Tel having a growing influence.