Manchester United see first bid rejected for French international

Benjamin Pavard, Bayern Munich (Photo by Markus Gilliar - GES Sportfoto/Getty Images)
Benjamin Pavard, Bayern Munich (Photo by Markus Gilliar - GES Sportfoto/Getty Images)

With Harry Maguire looking likely to depart Old Trafford with a deal reportedly agreed upon with West Ham United, Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is keen to reinforce his defence and has one man in his eye.

United have made no secret of being an admirer of French versatile defender Benjamin Pavard and feels he could be the final signing they need to challenge on all fronts.

What do we know about the Pavard to Manchester United deal?

United have highlighted they need another centre back, and Pavard fits the bill. He is also a very good right-back as well who could offer cover for Aaron Wan-Bissaka or Diogo Dalot. However, with fellow French mate Raphael Varane unlikely to play midweek and weekend back to back, United feel they are a little light even with the arrival of Jonny Evans, who is considering staying longer than his initial pre-season contract.

It is reported that Manchester United have seen their first bid rejected by the German giants. This was to be expected, but it will not deter United from returning for the 27-year-old World Cup winner.

Will the deal get over the line?

It has every possibility of getting over the line before the deadline in England, but United will have some work to do if they are to convince Bayern Munich to let go of their defender.

One issue that does lie in wait is the transfer of Kyle Walker. Despite speculation all summer and personal terms reportedly agreed for the English international, no deal has surfaced. The transfer means that Bayern are wary of letting a useful player leave without having a replacement lined up.

However, with Pavard not wanting to extend his contract any further than 2024 and reportedly pushing for a move to Manchester United, he could well be lining up for Manchester United as soon as 19th August against Tottenham Hotspur.