Manchester United ‘closely monitoring’ Leon Goretzka’s availability

Manchester United are closely monitoring Leon Goretzka’s availability as Thomas Tuchel plots a midfield overhaul at Bayern Munich, a new report claims.

Tuchel raised eyebrows during the final match of the season – which was crucial as it sealed the Bundesliga title ahead of Borussia Dortmund – when he substituted Goretzka, despite him only being on the pitch for 14 minutes. 

Sky Germany report that that substitution ‘sent a message’ to suitors that Goretzka is a moveable asset and United are said to ‘have him on their radar’ as they seek midfield reinforcements for 2023-24. 

Goretzka, who was labelled the ‘biggest disappointment of the season’ in critique from Didi Hamann, is said to want to stay in Bavaria, but may fall victim to a reshuffle by Tuchel. 

Midfield is an area of priority for Manchester United this summer with Chelsea star Mason Mount a primary target with talks ongoing. 

Erik ten Hag (middle) is targeting multiple reinforcements this summer to improve his side

But Goretzka would add further quality, particularly with United not prepared to try and make Marcel Sabitzer’s loan move from Bayern a permanent deal.

Bayern boss Tuchel is a huge admirer of West Ham star Rice and that deal could well trigger a series of moves in and out of Bavaria.

Mail Sport has previously reported that Rice is prioritising a move to the Premier League this summer over a move abroad, with Arsenal emerging as front-runners in the race to sign West Ham captain.

Tuchel has his own designs on trying to lure the England international away from the London Stadium the summer, with the former Chelsea manager a long-term admirer of Rice and believes the 24-year-old has all the attributes to be a success in the Bundesliga.

That would push Goretzka further down the pecking order and while he is under contract through until June 2026, his future is considered up in the air.

United are chasing a number of signings this summer in a bid to close the gap to rivals Manchester City, who beat them 2-1 at Wembley to win the FA Cup at the weekend. 

There are question marks around Gortezka’s long-term future at Bayern under Thomas Tuchel

Casemiro is seen as a key piece in midfield but there are legitimate question marks around the long-term futures of Fred, Scott McTominay and Christian Eriksen.

Writing on Instagram after losing at Wembley, Casemiro, who arrived from Real Madrid, laid down the challenge that United must improve to contend.

‘I feel at home. I read you and I hear everyone say that Manchester United is back, but this is only the beginning of our journey,’ he wrote.

‘The greatness of this club and this shield must force us to demand more of ourselves. Much more. Here defeat is not acceptable and the glory days must return. For that I have come. Come on United!!’