Manchester United hold ‘exploratory talks’ with Bayern Munich star as they look to agree free transfer

Manchester United have reached out to Bayern Munich over the signing of French defender Benjamin Pavard.

According to The Athletic, United have held ‘exploratory talks’ with the right back over a potential summer move from Germany.

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Pavard, a World Cup winner with France in 2018, joined German giants Bayern Munich from VfB Stuttgart for €35 million in 2019 and has made over 150 appearances for the club.

With the Frenchman’s contract set to expire in 2024, Manchester United may able to agree a fee for the transfer this summer.

A new striker and a new number 8 are top of The Red Devils transfer agenda heading into next season, but if those two positions are sorted, they may turn to looking for a more attacking minded right back.

Diogo Dalot has played the lion’s share of minutes in the right back position for United this term and talks between the two parties for a new contract remain ongoing.

Former defensive stalwart Aaron Wan-Bissaka is , and has been linked with a return to former club Crystal Palace.

Wan-Bissaka saw a resurgence in the team following the mid season World Cup break and Dalot’s injury, but has mostly been used as a substitute since the Portuguese international returned to fitness.

Football Insider reported in February that ‘Man United are exploring the signing of another right-back this summer’ and that ‘they are willing to listen to offers for Wan-Bissaka if another option is brought in’.

It was also stated that Wan-Bissaka is ‘not willing to be a back-up option going forward and is mulling over a potential departure’.

If Wan-Bissaka was to depart at the end of the season, a replacement in his position would be needed at Old Trafford.

Pavard would be seen as a solid option and, at 27, is in the prime of his career.

A season Champions League and International player, Pavard would bring hot competition for Dalot in the fight for first team minutes.

The Dutch international has recently changed agents, and Manchester United boss Erik Ten Hag is said to be an admirer of his compatriot.

Dumfries would be a more attacking option, and is most commonly used in the right wing back role in a back 5 for both club and country.

Pavard may be seen as a more logical fit, slotting in next to international teammate Raphael Varane in The Red Devils back line.