‘Already inquired’: INEOS make first moves to sign Bundesliga whiz hailed as ‘one of the best in the world’

It’s not often Manchester United fans are made to swallow their pride and welcome an ex-Manchester City player to the club, but they may just have to do so if their interest in Leroy Sane materialises.

Indeed, the Red Devils have shortlisted Sane ahead of his Bayern Munich contract expiring in June 2025, with German football expert Christian Falk claiming they’ve ‘already inquired’ about his situation.

Should a deal not be reached to extend his stay at the Allianz, the livewire attacker will be able to open talks with foreign clubs in January. Arsenal are also keeping tabs on his status, and given his previous ties, he may opt for a Gunners move to avoid tainting his reputation with the City faithful.

Sane spent four seasons on the blue side of Manchester, starting with the 2016/2017 campaign and culminating with the 2019/2020 term. He scored 39 goals and notched 43 assists in 135 appearances throughout his tenure, playing an integral role in the side’s two Premier League title triumphs, plus three League Cup wins and an FA Cup win.

Reds take first steps in Sane pursuit

The German international’s prolific Premier League exploits saw him quickly establish himself as one of Europe’s hottest prospects. Bayern fought to secure his signature in 2020 and eventually agreed a £54.8 million deal with City – despite Pep Guardiola’s pleas to keep him on board.

Sane, whom counterpart Jamal Musiala hailed as ‘one of the best wingers in the world’, is holding off making a concrete decision on his future until he’s held further talks with the club’s hierarchy, but judging by his start to 2024/2025, a transfer away may well be the most suitable option for his career; under new head coach – and former teammate – Vincent Kompany, the 28-year-old is yet to start a Bundesliga or Champions League game. Instead, he has made nine appearances off the bench, totalling only 214 minutes in the 13 matches.

Elsewhere, United are also said to be targeting Bayern’s Alphonso Davies and Leon Goretzka.