14 August 2023 , 21:13
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Benjamin Pavard has reportedly informed Bayern Munich that he intends to leave the club this summer amid transfer interest from Manchester United.
The 27-year-old France international emerged as a potential target for United earlier this month, with the Red Devils expected to move for defensive reinforcements if Harry Maguire completes his proposed £30million switch to West Ham.
Pavard has just one year remaining on his current deal at the Allianz Arena and is reluctant to sign a new contract - meaning he would be free to walk out on Bayern for nothing next summer. But Pavard has made it clear to his current employers that he doesn't want to wait 12 months for a new challenge.
According to German outlet Bild, Pavard has told Bayern that he wants to quit the club in the current transfer window in order to join Manchester United, who have shown an interest in the versatile defender.
The German giants were initially demanding at least €45million (£38.7m) for Pavard but are now reluctant to sanction his exit given that their top transfer target, Manchester City defender Kyle Walker, has decided against a move to Munich.
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Pavard's determination to leave sooner rather than later could force their hand though, particularly if the defender has already struck an agreement with Manchester United over personal terms following talks, as per Sky Germany.
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Pavard wants to quit Bayern Munich this summer (Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images)A deal for Pavard would be regarded as a coup for Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag, who has been busy in the transfer market despite the ongoing uncertainty over the club's future under the Glazer family.
The Dutchman has spent big on deals for Mason Mount, Andre Onana and Rasmus Hojlund and is now working to raise additional funds through player sales.
After losing his spot in the team last season and the club captaincy in the summer, Maguire has been tipped to leave Old Trafford before next month's transfer deadline and is locked in talks with West Ham over a transfer.
Elsewhere, Donny van de Beek is also attracting interest from clubs in Europe after being deemed surplus to requirements, whilst Eric Bailly and Scott McTominay have also been linked with moves away.
One player who seemingly won't be leaving the club anytime soon though, is Dean Henderson. The United academy graduate was expected to return to Nottingham Forest after excelling on loan at the City Ground last season, but an injury to Tom Heaton means United are unlikely to sanction a permanent transfer as things stand.