MANCHESTER UNITED EYE MOVE FOR BAYERN'S ALPHONSO DAVIES

Manchester United would need to pay a significant fee to sign Bayern Munich left-back Alphonso Davies, according to reports. Davies has played for the German club for seven years and remains under contract until 2030. He is 25 years old, but reports suggest he could be made available for transfer. United are reported to see him as an option to address a shortage of cover in the left-back position.

Luke Shaw is United's only senior natural left-back, but he is 31 and has a lengthy injury history, reports note. Patrick Dorgu can also play in the role, though it is not considered his natural position, while the club's other options are young and inexperienced. Michael Carrick is reported to have wanted to sign a left-back during the summer transfer window, but United did not complete a deal. Davies has his own history of muscular injuries, which reports say could give clubs pause before agreeing a move. Reports suggest United may have to manage without additional cover until at least January.

According to Fussball News, Bayern Munich are expected to open talks at around €50million but are unlikely to sell Davies for less than €60million, with a preferred fee of €65million, around £55million, potentially including add-ons. Vincent Kompany said Davies is "simply an incredible athlete," adding that he remains among the squad's fastest players even when not at full fitness following injury. Kompany said such resilience after a long layoff "is not normal." Reports have not confirmed whether United would pursue a move in the January transfer window or wait until the summer.