Manchester United targeting Serge Gnabry—Right man for the price?

Manchester United are reportedly considering a move for Bayern Munich winger Serge Gnabry next summer.

Erik ten Hag’s options out wide are seriously depleted at present with Antony given a leave of absence by the club, while Jadon Sancho has been exiled from the first team after publicly hitting back at his manager’s criticism. This has left the Dutch tactician with only Marcus Rashford, Facundo Pellestri and Alejandro Garnacho as the only senior options available for selection.

According to Spanish outlet Fichajes, Manchester United want to reinforce their right-wing position with the signing of Bayern’s Serge Gnabry.

Last year, Gnabry, 28, appeared on course to leave the Allianz Arena, only to sign a new contract that will keep him tied to Bayern until 2026. The German international subsequently contributed 16 goals and nine assists from 42 appearances in the Bundesliga and Champions League during 2022-23, but is not considered as a regular starter under Thomas Tuchel.

As a result, the Bavarians would be willing to sell the winger next summer for a fee of around £52m, the report adds.

Serge Gnabry to Manchester United—Should they make a move?

Man United have already started drawing up an ambitious plan for next summer, with a new right-winger considered at the top of the priority list. Antony is missing from Ten Hag’s side for the foreseeable future, while Jadon Sancho appears highly likely to depart Old Trafford over the coming transfer windows, potentially as soon as January should the club receive a suitable offer for a player who has fallen out with the manager.

Ten Hag is now in a position where he is suddenly largely dependent on youngsters on both flanks—Garnacho and Pellestri, with Marcus Rashford partly considered as a No.9 option. Thus, the United boss is keen on signing a right-winger next year and has set his sights on Serge Gnabry.

Gnabry can play on both flanks as well as through the middle as a false 9, and this versatility could largely appeal to Ten Hag. The 28-year-old has been highly productive since joining Bayern from Hoffenheim in 2018, registering 81 goals and 51 assists in 222 appearances. The German’s speed, dribbling skills and creativity, combined with his close control and flexibility, could make him a perfect fit for Ten Hag’s United.

At 28, Gnabry is also at the peak of his powers and could solve United’s right-wing issues. For a player who is experienced at the highest level and tasted great success in recent years with Bayern, the Red Devils must not hesitate to splash the cash to secure his signature next year.