Express. Home of the Daily and Sunday Express.
Man Utd have two marquee names above Kai Havertz on Ole Gunnar Solskjaer transfer wishlist
Manchester United are one of several clubs thought to be in contention to sign Kai Havertz.
Kai Havertz ‘should be in the Premier League’ says pundit
Manchester United reportedly have two marquee signings above Kai Havertz on their list of summer priorities in the transfer market. The German has emerged as a target for the Red Devils following a string of impressive performances since the return of the Bundesliga.
The 20-year-old currently remains focused on finishing the season strongly with Bayer Leverkusen.
He has helped them reach the DFB Pokal final in which they will take on Bayern Munich, while a top-four finish is still up for grabs.
Nonetheless, it is becoming clear that Havertz's time at the club is nearing its conclusion.
Bayer managing director Fernando Caro has already opened the door for a summer sale: “I see that many clubs are interested in him [Havertz].
JUST IN: Jurgen Klopp made Mo Salah and Sadio Mane promise to Jadon Sancho in private transfer chat
"I see the player’s desire to take the next step in the near future.”
According to The Telegraph, it's Chelsea who hold an advantage over Manchester United.
That's because the Red Devils reportedly have Jadon Sancho and Jack Grealish above the attacking midfielder on their shopping list.
The January signing of Bruno Fernandes has reduced United's need for an out-and-out No 10.
LATEST LIVE SPORT TV DEALS
Havertz has shown huge tactical flexibility in the Bundesliga and can play in a number of different roles.
In recent weeks he has operated as a false-nine while he can also play as a No 8.
Like Havertz, compatriot Michael Ballack attracted interest from both Manchester United and Chelsea.
He eventually joined the Blues and became a hero at Stamford Bridge, where he won the Premier League and three FA Cups.
Yet Ballack has advised Havertz not to rush his decision and stay at Leverkusen for now where he has the world at his feet.
"Players with his quality are in demand everywhere," Ballack told Bild.
"But I think he’s in good hands in Leverkusen. The conditions there are perfect for young top players and their development.
"Bayer play attractive football and their training facilities are very good.
"Leverkusen also offer a cautious environment, and as a player you can make mistakes without being the focus of criticism. You should appreciate that.
"Of course a player like Kai Havertz has to play in the Champions League, so it would be important for Leverkusen to qualify for it."
This article contains affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission on any sales of products or services we write about. This article was written completely independently, see more details here