United “close” to signing world class 24-yo star, he could’ve made difference against Arsenal – report

Manchester United are reported to be in pole position to sign Bayern Munich left-back Alphonso Davies.

Davies is considered one of the best full-backs in Europe, having established himself as a key part of the Bayern Munich squad and winning several major trophies since 2019.

However, Bayern may soon be forced to look for his alternative, owing to their failure to find an agreement over a new contract. Davies’ current deal is due to expire at the end of the season, intensifying interest of Europe’s top clubs in his services.

In particular, both United and Real Madrid have been widely reported to be keen on signing the 24-year-old on a free transfer. Now, it is being suggested the Mancunians have left Los Blancos behind in the race.

According to a report from journalist Javier Parra Pena, relayed by TEAMtalk, United are “close” to signing Davies after taking “firm step” towards finding an agreement with the player.

They are understood to be on course to “steal the blockbuster signing”, potentially as early as the winter window.

There is still time for Bayern to extend his stay, but at the same time, January presents the German giants their final opportunity to raise a fee for their superstar, who will walk away for free next summer if things remain unchanged.

This has led to suggestions of a cut-price move to United during the upcoming window.

Davies’s arrival has the potential to instantly fix a major issue for Amorim, who has had to deal with an injury crisis on the left flank.

Wing-backs are very important in his 3-4-3 formation, but Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia’s fitness have forced him to rely on Diogo Dalot to play as the left wing-back.

Malacia, who recently returned to first-team action after a lengthy lay-off, struggled against Bukayo Saka in United’s 2-0 defeat at Arsenal on Wednesday. Dalot, who started on the right-hand side, replaced him in the second half, and the Portuguese was arguably even worse and appeared sloppy in possession.

A fully fit Shaw or an elite left-back like Davies, who is known for his pace and dribbling ability, could have helped the Red Devils get out of their half and test Arsenal’s backline more often.

Featured image Alex Grimm via Getty Images