Man Utd to lose second player to waiting game as Benjamin Pavard 'offer being prepared'

Manchester United’s desire to offload players before splashing the cash could prove costly for the second time in quick succession. Bayern Munich star Benjamin Pavard is of interest at Old Trafford, but Inter Milan are also reportedly pushing to strike a deal for the defender.

Erik ten Hag made it clear heading into the summer transfer window that he wanted to freshen up his ranks, with investment into all departments. The ex-Ajax boss has been granted a new shot-stopper in the shape of Andre Onana, with Rasmus Hojlund joining from Atalanta to lead the line next season.

Mason Mount was purchased from Chelsea to provide an alternative option in midfield, with a defender now high on the shopping list. Bayer Leverkusen’s Edward Tapsoba and Nice’s Jean-Clair Todibo are both admired with Pavard making up a three-man shortlist of considerations at the Theatre of Dreams.

However, United could have cost themselves the chance to sign the latter by sitting on their hands and not striking a deal with Bayern. According to L’Equipe, Inter are ‘preparing an offer for Pavard’ and are particularly attracted by his versatility, given that the former Stuttgart star can play as a centre-back and also a right-back.

United identified Pavard as a target earlier this summer but are yet to table any offers for his services, opening up a window of opportunity for other clubs to pounce. The Red Devils have instead insisted that players must be offloaded.

Fred may be sold to Fenerbahce but Harry Maguire is expected to now stay after a drastic U-turn saw West Ham walk away from negotiations due to the ex-captain stalling on personal terms.

The Red Devils’ reluctance to continue purchasing top targets has also seen Sofyan Amrabat attract plenty of interest, with Liverpool now joining the race to sign the Fiorentina star. The Morocco international is viewed as the ideal option to provide cover for Casemiro in midfield, whilst allowing Ten Hag to play a defensive-minded double pivot in certain fixtures.